When floodwaters rise, seconds matter.
In Benbrook and across the country, flooding causes more weather-related deaths than any other extreme precipitation event, and many of those tragedies involve drivers misjudging the depth of water on the road.
The good news? There’s a lot you can do now to stay ahead of the danger.
Start by getting prepared. Know how to shut off your gas and electricity. Keep important documents and medications in a safe place. Build a disaster plan and a 72-hour emergency kit. Sign up for alerts through Know Now, and check KnoWhat2Do.com for more on making a family plan.
When heavy rain hits, stay alert. Floodwaters can appear shallow but conceal deep currents, sharp debris, or hazardous animals. Don’t drive through them. Turn around, even if it means taking a longer route. And if authorities call for evacuation, follow their lead without hesitation.
After the storm, never turn utilities back on without professional help. For added protection going forward, label your fuse box so you can easily shut down circuits that are prone to flooding. You may also consider installing barriers, such as berms or flood walls.
Need help getting started or have questions about flood prep? Contact the Benbrook Fire Department at 817-249-1727 or Public Services at 817-249-6063.
