Marin has a long history of significant storms with high winds, flooding and mudslides.  Flooding in the low lying areas every year when heavy rainfall is combined with high tides.  Storm runoff can also cause flooding to hillside homes and communities far upstream of the tidal zones.

• If your house is in a flood zone or in the potential path of heavy runoff, keep plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber on hand to divert water
• If your house is in one of low lying flat areas, and your basement is subject to flooding, consider installing a sump pump with generator backup.
• If there is a possibility that water will engulf electrical or gas outlets, turnoff electricity and gas at the meters.
• If sandbags are needed to keep waterat bay, purchase the sand and thebags before the rainy season.  Stockpile as many filled bags as you thinkyou may need.  Refer to "How to Fill and Stack Sandbags" in the Get Ready Handbook.
• Don't walk through floodwaters thatare more than knee deep. If you are trapped in your home or building, move to a second floor and wait for help to come.  
• Do not drive where water is over the road.  The road bed you think is there may have been washed away.  If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground.
• Do not "sight see" in flood areas.  Avoid unnecessary driving trips.

Want to learn more?  Take a free GET READY class from your local fire department or online today!