Butler County Sheriff's Office

[Public Info Officer]

For Immediate Release… March 2, 2006

SHERIFF DISCUSSES SPRING FLOODS

Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones points out that with the onset of warmer weather, so come the spring storms. It’s never too early to start planning for springtime emergencies, which include localized flooding.

Butler County is prone to several types of flooding, especially in the spring. These include River Flooding, Urban Flooding, and Flash Floods. During “Watch” periods, the Sheriff’s Marine Patrol stays on standby to assist or rescue those who get into trouble in high water. The Marine Patrol has also been training local fire department first responders in water rescue techniques.

“One of the least expensive investments for your family’s safety is an NOAA weather radio,” says Sheriff Jones. Immediate notification is the key to personal safety in the event of a weather-related incident. NOAA provides “Watches” and “Warnings” for storms and flooding. “Our local floods have proved to be very deadly in the past several years, and we want to do everything we can to prevent these tragedies from happening,” continues Sheriff Jones. “Public education is just one of those tools.”

Flooding Safety Tips:
· If flooding is eminent or occurring, move to higher ground.
· Do not attempt to cross moving water—six inches of moving water can knock a full-grown adult over
· Do not allow children to play near high water, storm drains, or ditches
· Flooded roadways pose significant hazards. Washed away roadways are hidden by the water; it takes as little as two feet of moving water to float your vehicle downstream.
· Be especially careful at night. Darkness makes it harder to recognize flood dangers.
· Monitor your local news media for vital weather-related information
· Maintain a home emergency kit to include canned food (with a manual can opener), drinking water, first aid kit, battery-powered radio, flashlight with extra batteries, sets of extra clothing, as well as cash for emergency purchases.

March 20-24, 2006, is “Flood Safety Week.” Watch for additional safety information in the upcoming weeks. Remember, when threatening weather is apparent, tune into your local media and your NOAA Weather Radio for the latest details. Also remember that your Butler County Sheriff’s Office stands ready to assist you in times of need.