Camp Springs Civic Association

Flooding is the nation’s #1 natural disaster and it can happen at any time and anywhere. During Flood Awareness Month in June, the Department of the Environment (DoE) is working to raise awareness of flood risks and what County residents can do to protect their homes, families and businesses if flooding occurs.

“Through our outstanding flood management program, DoE works to keep everyone in the County “flood smart” and prepared for a flood before the waters start to rise. There are several resources available to assist residents in determining if they live or work in a flood zone, obtain flood insurance and learn more about the steps they should take if flooding occurs,” commented Department of the Environment Director Adam Ortiz.

Prince George’s County offers a notification service, Alert Prince George’s that sends subscribers a text or email message in the event of major flooding. DoE’s “Be FloodSmart” poster provides information on what causes flooding, how to prevent local flooding, and how to protect your home and business in the case of a flood. In addition, www.floodsmart.gov offers flood safety tips, guidance on making a flood plan, and information on flood insurance premiums, which County residents can save up to 25 percent. For more information on insurance rates and premiums, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Flood Insurance Reform – Rates and Refunds webpage. 

Follow these safety tips* when you receive a flood watch or warning alert from Prince George’s County and know what to do when encountering flooding:  

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown!;
• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters;
• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away;
• If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods are the #1 cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S.;
• If flood waters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground; do not leave the car and enter moving water; and
• Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers and creeks during heavy rainfall; these areas can flood quickly and with little warning.

*Source: www.ready.gov/floods

For more information, contact CountyClick at 3-1-1.