Media contacts:  
Christopher Harris:  (216) 698-7157 or cbharris@cuyahogacounty.us
Rich Luchette:  (216) 797-0931, or rluchette@cuyahogacounty.us


CUYAHOGA COUNTY – Warmer temperatures, melting snow, and heavy rain will create a risk of flooding throughout Cuyahoga County over the next several days.   

County residents are reminded that flooding poses a significant risk to health and safety.  If flooding occurs, residents should keep these safety tips in mind:  

• Create an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.  Know how to reach all family members and think about where you will go if your home or neighborhood is flooded.  
• Monitor weather broadcasts, the National Weather Service website, or other news sources for current information on possible flooding.  Remember, a Flood Watch indicates that flooding is possible, but a Flood Warning means that flooding is occurring or will soon occur.   
• If you observe dangerous flooding – especially flash flooding – do not wait for instructions but move to higher ground immediately.  
• Prepare for possible flooding by moving essential items to an upper floor in your home.  
• If flooding occurs, do not attempt to drive through flooded areas.  Six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your car.  Twelve inches of water can float many vehicles.  Do not drive around barricades.  
• If flood waters surround your car, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground.  
• Stay out of floodwaters.  The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.  
• Flooding can contaminate local water systems.  Watch for news reports to learn whether the water supply is safe to drink.  
• If your home does flood, be sure to clean and disinfect every item that gets wet.  Residue from floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals.  Be alert for signs of mold.  
• The Cuyahoga County Office of Emergency Management’s mission is to protect lives, property, the environment, and the economy.  For additional information, contact us at 216-443-5700 or online at http://ja.cuyahogacounty.us/en-US/emergency-management.aspx