JMU precautionary flood actions

Ahead of forecasted weather this week due to Tropical Depression Ida, JMU is sharing some important reminders on how to prepare for and protect against potential flooding on and off campus.

To prepare for, and protect against flooding, you should:
Avoid low-lying areas on the JMU campus, specifically near Godwin Transit Center, Mr. Chips, Hillside Field, Duke Dog Alley and the Arboretum.

Make an Emergency Plan

• Gather supplies to shelter in place.
• Obtain extra batteries and charging devices for cell phones and other critical equipment.
• Share location information with everyone (friends, family, etc.).
• Stay updated: jmu.edu, LiveSafe, Madison Alert or local news agencies.
• Do not walk, swim, boat, float or drive through floodwaters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.

Survive DURING
• If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades.
• Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
• If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, stay inside the vehicle. If water is rising inside the vehicle, seek refuge on the roof.
• If trapped in a building, go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Go on the roof only if necessary. Once there, signal for help.

Be Safe AFTER
• Listen to authorities for information and instructions. Return to residence only when authorities say it is safe.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.
• Avoid wading in floodwater. Floodwater may contain dangerous debris and can be contaminated. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.

Know the terms to help understand flood hazard:
Flood Watch- Flooding is possible.

Flash Flood Watch- Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground.

Flood Warning – Flooding is occurring or will occur soon. If told to evacuate, do so
Immediately.

Flash Flood Warning – A flash flood is occurring. Seek higher ground on foot
Immediately.

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