Safety tips as the Mississippi River continues to rise in the Quad Cities

MOLINE, Ill. — The Mississippi River continues to rise as April comes to an end, and there is a lot to keep in mind when it comes to staying safe during this time. 

The Red Cross of the Quad Cities and West Central Illinois is available to provide assistance to those impacted by the flood. Call 1-800-733-2767 for assistance. 

The National Weather Service has plenty of tips for you and your family to stay safe. Here's a look at what you need to know: 

Before flooding

Flooding along the Mississippi River usually develops slowly, so it's easier for forecasters to anticipate where a flood will happen days or even weeks in advance. 

The NWS recommends: 

• Creating a communications plan with your family and friends. 
• Assembling an emergency kit with food, water and medicine that will last you at least three days. Also have batteries, blankets, flashlights, a first aid kit, rubber boots and gloves, and a NOAA Weather Radio or battery-operated radio.
• Know what your risk is. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has a map for you to determine whether your home, school or place of employment is in a floodplain. 
• Have multiple ways of getting notifications, whether it be your local news outlet or the NWS itself. 
• Prepare your home. Make sure you have sandbags ready to go before the flood hits. Have a professional check your plumbing to make sure nothing backs up into your home. Make sure your fuses are clearly marked for each area of your home. Also, check in with your insurance company.
• Prepare your family and furry friends. Have your emergency bags packed with all of your essentials. 
• Charge your essential electronics and pack a charging cord. Also, pack extra batteries. 
• Leave! If it's likely your home will flood, leave before the water hits to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. 

During flooding

Once a flood is here, water levels and the rate of flowing water can change quickly. Stay aware of where the levels are and avoid flood waters at all costs.

Here's what the NWS recommends: 

• Stay informed: Listen to radio and television, including NOAA Weather Radio if possible, and check the Internet and social media for information and updates.
• Get to higher ground: If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately.
• Obey evacuation orders: If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances.
• Practice electrical safety: Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises--get out! Stay out of water that may have electricity in it!
• Avoid flood waters: Don't walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible. Do NOT drive into flooded roadways or around a barricade; Turn Around, Don't Drown! Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed-out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, etc. A vehicle caught in swiftly moving water can be swept away in seconds, 12 inches of water can float a car or small SUV, and 18 inches of water can carry away large vehicles.

After flooding

Once the flood waters recede, it is still important to stay informed and away from flooded areas. You won't always see the dangers right in front of you, such as water being contaminated with sewage or chemicals, gas leaks, and live powerlines. 

Here's exactly what the NWS recommends: 

• Stay informed: Stay tuned to your local news for updated information on road conditions. Ensure water is safe to drink, cook or clean with after a flood. Authorities may ask you to boil water for a while after a flood. Utility companies often have apps to update you on getting service back. Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of death after storms when areas are dealing with power outages. Never use a portable generator inside your home or garage. Review generator safety.
• Avoid flood waters: Standing water hides many dangers including toxins and chemicals. There may be sharp objects under the water or the road could have collapsed. If it is likely your home will flood, don't wait for an evacuation order, get out! Talk to friends and family about emergency visits. If you have pets, take them with you or get them somewhere safe.
• Avoid disaster areas: Do not visit disaster areas. Your presence may hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
• Heed road closed and cautionary signs: Road closure and other cautionary signs are put in place for your safety. Pay attention to them!
• Wait for the All Clear: Do not enter a flood-damaged home or building until you're given the "All Clear" by authorities. If you enter a flood-damaged building, be extremely careful. Water can cause floods to collapse, ceilings to fall, etc. Make sure the electrical system has been turned off. Have the power company or a qualified electrician fix the wires. Contact your insurance agent to discuss property damage. If you have a generator, follow proper safety procedures.
• Contact your family and loved ones: Let your family and close friends know that you’re OK so they can help spread the word. Register with or search the American Red Cross’s Safe and Well listing.

Watch more coverage of the incoming flood on News 8's YouTube channel