Red Cross opens shelter at Tuckaleechee United Methodist Church for flood victims
From Staff Reports
The America Red Cross Disaster Action Team in Blount County is
opening an emergency shelter 6:30 p.m. at Tuckaleechee United Methodist Church, 7322 Old
Tuckaleechee Road, Townsend, for any residents who need to evacuate their homes due to flooding.
The Red Cross recommends that individuals and families prepare for
floods by:
Creating and practicing a Disaster Plan: Talk to everyone
in your household about what to do if a flood occurs. Decide where you would meet and who you would
contact in case of flooding. Assemble and maintain an emergency preparedness kit. Be prepared to
evacuate your family and pets at a moment’s notice. Listen to area radio and television stations for
possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in
progress.
Assembling an Emergency Preparedness Kit: Kits
should contain a first aid kit and essential medications, foods that don’t require cooking or
refrigeration and manual can opener, bottled water, flashlights and a battery-powered radio with
extra batteries, copies of important documents and other emergency items for the whole
family.
Heeding Flood Warnings: Listen to your local radio and TV
stations for updated flood information. A flood WATCH means flooding or flash flooding is
possible in your area. A food WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will
occur soon in your area. When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for
higher ground and stay there.
Relocating During Flood
Warnings: Stay away from flood waters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above
your ankle, stop, turn around and go another way. If you come upon a flooded road while driving,
turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly
around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.
