[Archived] Frequently Asked Questions About Flooding

City Press Release


	City of Alexandria, Virginia Office of the City Manager Alexandria City Hall 301 King Street, Suite 3500 Alexandria, Virginia 22314-3211 www.alexandriava.gov Telephone: 703.838.4300 Fax : 703.838.6343

PIO 31-03

FLOOD/SNOW FAQs (frequently asked questions)

Q. I understand there may be flooding in Alexandria this weekend. What is the City doing to prepare?

A. The City is doing several things.
- Crews are removing snow from areas around catch basins and drains so melting snow and rain can flow freely
- Crews have been removing large piles of snow from low areas so the moisture from the melting snow will not collect in low areas.
- 2,000 sandbags have been filled for possible use in areas of the City susceptible to river flooding. The sandbags will be trucked to the lower King Street area Saturday morning.

Q. Who can have sandbags?

A. The sandbags the City is providing are for property owners in the low-lying areas of the City (East of Lee Street and bounded by Wolfe and Queen Streets) closest to the river which are prone to river flooding.

Q. How can we get the sandbags?

A. If you are a property owner in the area near the river, you may go to the area where the truck is parked and request sand bags. You will be asked if you own property in the area.

Q. I don’t own property near the river but I want sandbags.

A. Because the number of sandbags is limited, other City residents and businesses may want to visit local hardware or home improvement stores to obtain sand to make their own sand bags (small sand bags are not usually available commercially).

Q. When is the flooding expected?

A. A flood watch has not been declared. However, according to Accu Weather, the heaviest rain is expected between 3 am and 7 pm on Saturday (February 22). In addition, high tide will occur about noon on Saturday. A combination of the snow from the past storm along with rain moving into the region could lead to some flooding problems.

Q. Will businesses be open by the river?

A. YES! Businesses will be open for business along King Street, along the river and in Old Town.

Q. Will there be any parking restrictions due to flooding?

A. For safety reasons, motor vehicle access to lower King Street areas may be restricted beginning about 11 am on Saturday. Watch for posted signs. Restricted parking in private parking garages will be up to the parking lot owners/operators.

Q. I don’t live/operate a business by the river / in Old Town, but am still concerned about the potential for flooding and/or water damage from snow melt. What should I do to protect my property?

A. Remove snow from basement windows, walk-out basement areas, the foundation of your home, and especially clear snow, ice and debris from the down spouts. If your home has a sump pump, make sure it is working properly.

City of Alexandria City Manager’s Office February, 2003

Flood Emergency Tips from the Federal Emergency Management Agency

Coping With a Flood: Before, During and After

Nobody can stop a flood. But if you are faced with one, there are actions you can take to protect your family and keep your property losses to a minimum.

The most important thing is to make sure your family is safe.

Before a Flood

Keep a battery-powered radio tuned to a local station, and follow emergency instructions.

If the waters start to rise inside your house before you have evacuated, retreat to the second floor, the attic, and if necessary, the roof.

Take dry clothing, a flashlight and a portable radio with you. Then, wait for help. Don't try to swim to safety; wait for rescuers to come to you.

If Time Permits, Here are Other Steps That You Can Take Before The Flood Waters Come

Turn off all utilities at the main power switch if evacuation appears necessary.

Move valuables, such as papers, furs, jewelry, and clothing to upper floors or higher elevations.

Fill bathtubs, sinks and plastic soda bottles with clean water.

Sanitize the sinks and tubs first by using bleach. Rinse, then fill with clean water.

Bring outdoor possessions, such as lawn furniture, grills and trash cans inside, or tie them down securely.

Once The Flood Arrives

Do not drive through a flooded area. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else.

Do not walk through flooded areas. As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.

Stay away from downed power fines and electrical wires. Electrocution is another major source of deaths in floods. Electric current passes easily through water.

Look out for animals - especially snakes. Animals lose their homes in floods, too. They may seek shelter in yours.

After The Flood

If your home, apartment or business has suffered damage, call the insurance company or agent who handles your flood insurance policy right away to file a claim.

Before entering a building, check for structural damage. Don't go in if there is any chance of the building collapsing.

Upon entering the building, do not use matches, cigarette lighters or any other open flames, since gas may be trapped inside. Instead, use a flashlight to light your way.

Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.

Flood waters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms and factories. If your home has been flooded, protect your family’s health by cleaning up your house right away. Throw out foods and medicines that may have come into contact with flood water.

Until local authorities proclaim your water supply to be safe, boil water for drinking and food preparation vigorously for five minutes before using.

Be careful walking around. After a flood, steps and floors are often slippery with mud and covered with debris, including nails and broken glass.

Take steps to reduce your risk of future floods. Make sure to follow local building codes and ordinances when rebuilding, and use flood-resistant materials and techniques to protect yourself and your property from future flood damage.

One of the most important things that you can do to protect your home and family before a flood is to purchase a flood insurance policy, if you are eligible.

You can obtain one through your insurance company or agent. Flood insurance is guaranteed through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Your homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.

Don't wait until a flood is coming to purchase your policy. It normally takes 30 days after purchase for a flood insurance policy to go into effect.
For more information about the NFIP and flood insurance, contact your insurance company or agent, or call the NFIP at 1.888.FLOOD29 or TDD# 1.800.427.5593

FEMA 500 C Street, SW Washington, D.C. 20472 Phone: 202.566.1600