Protect People

Do Not Enter signThere are some actions you can take now to keep you and your family safe in a flooding event. 

  1. Become familiar with the warning systems available in Batavia and take action to be ready in the case of a flood:

  2. Use this link: http://www.batavianewyork.com/subscribe to sign up for text and/or email alerts delivered directly to your digital phone or email.Notification of flood warnings, watches and urgent communication regarding flooding is always communicated through this vehicle.

  3. Register to receive all weather and emergency alerts through New York-Alert at https://users.nyalert.gov/

  4. Monitor real time Tonawanda Creek Levels in Batavia at https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=buf&gage=btvn6

  5. Read these links that providemore  preparedness information

    1. Ready.Gov @ https://www.ready.gov/floods

    2. CDChttps://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/index.html

    3. FloodSmart.Gov @ https://www.floodsmart.gov/flood/first-prepare-for-flooding

    4. Red Cross @ https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/flood.html

    5. Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Association (DHS/FEMA)

  6. Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid, blankets, a radio and a flashlight.

  7. Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone and teach your children how to dial 911.

  8. Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family. Know safe routes from home, work, and school that are on higher ground.

  9. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be your emergency family contact.

  10. Have a plan to protect your pets.

  11. Avoid potentially hazardous areas

    1. Stay away from the Tonawanda Creek – especially at rapid flow times after ice and snow melt and heavy rains. 

    2. Avoid natural floodplain areas like Kibbe Park that are designed to collect floodwaters to prevent the flooding of nearby properties. 

    3. Avoid flooded streets - Rescue workers have had to help stranded motorists from flooded vehicles during every flood in the City’s history.  Remember:  Turn Around, Don’t Drown

Some other things you can do to stay safe during a flood:

  • If water rises in your home before you evacuate, go to the top floor, attic, or roof.
  • Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest storm information.
  • Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if advised to do so.
  • If you've come in contact with floodwaters, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water.

For more information on emergency preparation, talk to your insurance agent or visit Ready.gov. You can always contact the Batavia City Fire Headquarters and speak to the duty officer with your questions related to FLOOD or EMERGENCY preparedness by calling (585-345-6375).