COMMUNITY

Alamogordo braces for monsoon season

Daily News reports

Monsoon season is on its way and the City of Alamogordo has some tips to prevent being stuck in a flash flood or being swept away in moving water.

The conditions that cause floods include heavy or steady rain for several hours or several days that saturate the ground.

Flash floods occur suddenly due to rapidly rising water along a stream or low-lying areas.

The following are things to do in case you are confronted with a flood hazard.

  • Listen to your radio and television for flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service.
  • Be prepared to evacuate.
  • When a flood or flash flood is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.
  • Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go the other way. Remember six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.
  • If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go the other way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of your vehicle and move to higher ground. Most vehicles can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
  • Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack good judgment about running water or contaminated water.
  • Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood hazards.
  • Make sure you have insurance that covers floods associated with storms, heavy rains and other conditions.

Being Prepared

  • Always have a contact list. Check on family members and neighbors.
  • Keep a preparedness kit with the following: flashlight, first aid kit, extra batteries, multipurpose tool, emergency blankets, maps, extra car keys, house keys, rain gear and extra clothing.
  • If you have a cell phone keep it close by.
  • Have tools and supplies close by in case you have to secure your home.
  • Always have a three-day supply of water and food (non-perishables) for each family member.
  • Keep a seven-day supply of medications and other medical items.

Sand Bags

Sand bags are available to the residents of Alamogordo at various locations throughout the city.

  • Fire Station-1, 619 Texas Ave.
  • Fire Station-2, 2100 Walker Rd.
  • Fire Station-4, 3310 E. 10TH St.
  • Fire Station-5, 1492 S. Florida Ave.
  • Fire Station-6, 3100 N. Florida Ave.
  • Fire Station-7, 2010 Oregon

  • If you need assistance loading sand bags, knock on the fire station door.

The Alamogordo Fire Department recommends sand bags not be stacked more than three bags high and should only be used to protect openings and entrances to homes, businesses or critical infrastructures.

Residents are welcome to take the amount of sand bags they need.