According to Betty Hollister, Public Information Manager for the Clark County Regional Flood Control District, the most important thing to remember in a flash flood is not to take unnecessary chances. "More people die in floods than in any other natural disaster. Most floods are over in an hour or two. Try to wait it out," she said.
Hollister and the Clark County Regional Flood Control District, recommend these safety tips, if you find yourself facing a flash flood:
- Stay inside. Flash floods are short and intense in duration. Conditions can improve in a few hours. Try as best you can to stay indoors and wait the storm out.
- If you are driving, never cross flooded roads or drive around barricades.
- Visibility is near zero during monsoon thunderstorms. Try and find a safe place to park. (If you do pull to the side of the road, however, don’t leave your lights on. With the bad visibility, other drivers may think you are still on the road and slam into you.
Also, southern Nevada residents should consider getting flood insurance, even if their homes are not in a designated flood zone. Most insurance policies do not cover floods. A separate policy specifically for floods needs to be purchased. You can call FEMA at 888-CALL-FLOOD to find out more about obtaining flood insurance for your home.
Important Resources
Red Cross - Southern Nevada Chapter1771 E. Flamingo Rd., Suite 206B
Las Vegas NV 89119
(702) 791-3311
www.redcrosslasvegas.org
Clark County Regional Flood Control District
600 S. Grand Central Pkwy Suite 300
Las Vegas, NV 89106-4511
General line: (702) 455-3139
Recorded information about flood safety, insurance, and maps: (702) 455-5195
www.ccrfcd.com