Safety tips from the Coast Guard as the northwest moves into storm season.
(PORTLAND, Ore.) - With severe weather approaching, the Coast Guard reminds boaters and beach-goers to be prepared and stay aware. Strong winds and heavy surf are forecast over the next several days.
Boaters, beach-goers and those living in areas with a potential for flooding should follow these guidelines to ensure their safety:
1. Minimize contact with flood water - Standing water from flooding can carry diseases and hazardous chemicals. If you get your water from a well and water floods into your pump house - check to see if water from the ground went down your well. If so, or if you're not sure, boil your water before using it for drinking or cooking for yourself or your pets. If water floods your septic system, minimize your use of water for washing and wait for the water level to drop. If you come in contact with standing water, wash carefully before you eat or drink.
2. Assemble a disaster preparedness kit - a good disaster kit should include: a first aid kit and essential medications, canned food and a can opener, at least three gallons of water per person, protective clothing, rainwear, and bedding or sleeping bags, battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries, special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members, written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so (remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on.)
3. Stay high and dry - move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades,they are there for your safety. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.
4. If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood.
5. Check Local Weather Forecasts: Be aware that storms can come up quickly and several are forecast this week. Always check local weather conditions and forecasts before heading out. If you must go out, monitor current forecasts, warnings and conditions via National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio. There are 14 NOAA Weather Radio stations broadcasting along the Oregon and Washington coasts.
6. Wear Personal Floatation Devices: Life jackets - bring one for each person. History has shown that the chance of survival greatly increases if an individual is wearing a personal floatation device. For more information on life jacket requirements visit:
Coast Guard Warns Residents to Prepare for Winter StormsSalem-News.com