Weather emergencies such as high winds, flooding and landslides can occur in Southern California. Call the local county geologist to find out if your home is located in a flash-flood-prone or landslide-prone area. Be prepared to turn off electrical power in case of standing water, fallen power lines or evacuation orders. Have a licensed electrician raise electric components such as switches, sockets, circuit breakers and wiring at least 12 inches above your home's projected flood elevation. Install backflow valves or plugs in drains, toilets and other sewer connections to prevent floodwater from entering through these appliances. Anchor fuel tanks. Have insect repellent that contains DEET or Picaridin, screens and long-sleeved clothing on hand to protect you and your family from mosquitoes that might gather in pooled water after the flood. Prepare for an evacuation by arranging accommodations for pets.
If you are under a flood watch or warning, fill bathtubs, sinks and plastic soda bottles with clean water. Sanitize sinks and tubs before filling with clean water by spraying with bleach and then rinsing. Bring outdoor possessions, such as lawn furniture, grills and trashcans inside, or tie them down securely. Know the date of the last tetanus shot for every member of your family. If you are ordered to evacuate, never ignore the order. Turn the thermostat on refrigerators and freezers to the coolest possible temperature. Disconnect appliances to prevent electrical shock when power is restored, and do not attempt to drive or walk across creeks and flooded roads.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is something you need to be careful about during and after weather-related emergencies because main gas lines are often disrupted during flood and wind storms. People must sometimes resort to cooking on portable stoves, which can be dangerous if done in enclosed areas because carbon monoxide is released during combustion. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a clear, odorless gas that can cause sudden death and illness. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. People who are sleeping or have been drinking alcohol can die from carbon monoxide poisoning before ever having symptoms. Every home should have at least one working carbon monoxide detector, and batteries should be checked twice annually at the same time smoke detector batteries are checked.
To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, never use generators, grills, camp stoves, propane, natural gas or other gasoline, or a charcoal-burning device inside a home, basement, garage or camper. Keep them away from windows as well. Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed space, such as a garage.