Fort Pierce Flood Preparedness: Stay Safe This Hurricane Season

Fort Pierce residents should prepare for potential flood hazards and take proactive steps to ensure safety and protect property. With hurricane season underway, understanding flood risks and preparing in advance is crucial.

Safety First During Floods

Avoid driving or walking through flooded areas. The phrase "Turn Around, Don't Drown" is a vital reminder, as drowning in vehicles is a leading cause of flood-related deaths. Driving through floodwaters can damage vehicles and cause flooding to adjacent homes through wakes. Walking in moving water is also dangerous; six inches of flowing water can knock a person off their feet. After a flood, residents should be cautious of debris and slippery surfaces.

Electrocution is another significant flood danger. Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires, as electric current can travel through water. If necessary, have the power company turn off electricity. Do not use wet appliances or motors unless thoroughly cleaned and dried. Report downed power lines to Fort Pierce Utilities or the County Emergency Management Office.

Property Protection and Preparation

To mitigate property damage, consider re-grading lots, building small floodwalls, or installing watertight closures on doorways. Residential properties can benefit from elevating homes. Commercial properties can use floodproofing, installing floodgates, and waterproofing walls.

Boat owners must secure their vessels. Plan in advance to move boats or arrange for storage. If leaving a boat outside, anchor the trailer firmly, deflate tires, and secure the boat to the trailer. Filling the bilge with water adds weight. For boats kept in the water, double dock lines, use extra anchors, and remove marine electronics and unsecured equipment.

Trim trees before storms to remove potential hazards like cracked trunks or decaying limbs. Contact the Solid Waste Department at 772-467-3000 for information on tree trimming and waste collection.

Pool owners should bring in outdoor furniture and items that could blow away. If an overflowing pool poses a flood risk, lower the water level by 6 to 12 inches. Treated pool water can serve as a backup source for washing and flushing if utility water fails.

Important Documents and Insurance

Place important documents in waterproof containers. Review insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage, noting that most policies cover windstorm damage but not flooding. Policy changes typically take 30 days to take effect.

Natural Gas Safety

For those using natural gas, inspect for leaks with a flashlight after an event. Avoid smoking or using open flames until gas is confirmed off and the area is ventilated. Report gas leaks to Fort Pierce Utilities.