Prepare now for flood season

With the fall and winter flood season nearing, Orting Valley residents should prepare now to keep their family and property safe.

“Everyone should have a family plan in place and an emergency kit on hand in case of extreme weather conditions,” said Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy. “Other steps to help you get ready for flood season include purchasing flood insurance, keeping storm drains near your home and business clear of debris, and storing valuables and household chemicals above flood levels.”

To create a family plan, residents should identify a safe route from their home, school and work to high ground, set a meeting place for family members in case of separation, and designate an out-of-state contact to call if local lines are busy or down. An emergency kit should include at least a seven-day supply of food and water, first aid supplies, extra clothing and blankets, prescription medicine, and hygiene and sanitation supplies. 

Flood Bulletin mailed out
Nearly 17,000 residents who live or own property near flood hazard areas within unincorporated Pierce County will soon receive the county’s annual Flood Bulletin in the mail. The bulletin provides information on flood protection and preparedness, such as:

• The county’s Flood Warning System and emergency contact information;
• Actions that property owners can take to avoid flood disaster – before, during, and after a flood;
• Flood insurance facts and how to purchase flood insurance; and
• An overview of a new documentary about the Pierce County flood buyout program.

The bulletin is also available on Pierce County’s flood website at www.piercecountywa.org/flood, by calling (253) 798-2725, or emailing pcwater@co.pierce.wa.us. The flood website includes a brief survey residents can take for a chance to win a weather radio. The raffle will be held on Dec. 10.

Other available resources
Several other websites offer important information about flooding:
• Information on emergency kit supplies: www.piercecountywa.org/prepare
• Information on flood insurance: www.floodsmart.gov
• Sign up to get emergency alerts by phone, text message, email, or TTY/TTD: www.piercecountywa.org/alert