Keeping Your Family Safe
There are many potential dangers when floodwaters rise. We’ve collected important safety tips that will give you the knowledge and confidence you need to keep your family safe in the event of flooding — because flood safety starts with YOU.
- Create a plan and have an emergency kit!
- Avoid standing water. Floodwaters may contain fecal matter, bacteria, and viruses.
- Don’t drive through moving or standing water. Water 2 feet deep can disable most vehicles.
- Treat non-functioning traffic signals as a four-way stop.
- Observe all barricades and detours. They are there for your protection! Clear yard of debris or items that can block water flow and storm drains.
- Avoid downed power lines. Always assume power lines are live!
- Watch for workers repairing surfaces, and follow all directional instructions and detour signs.
Storm Debris
Tree limbs and other storm-related debris can be placed out for yard waste pick-up on your scheduled day.
Alligators and Wildlife
Floods are an opportunity for alligators and other wildlife to enter residential areas. Report them through the toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline: (866) FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).
Mosquito Prevention
Standing water breeds mosquitoes. Be sure to drain any standing water and cover items that collect rainwater. Common offenders include: garbage cans, house gutters, pool covers, coolers, toys, flower pots, buckets, watering cans, and kiddie pools. More tips and a schedule of where spraying has recently occurred is available at the Hillsborough County Website.
Road Closures and Drainage Problems
Due to recent heavy rainfall, even small amounts of additional water may cause standing water in streets, ditches, yards, and low-lying areas. You can report blocked storm drains, potholes, washouts, and other road damage by contacting the City of Tampa at (813) 274-3101 or by visiting Transportation and Stormwater Services.