Safety is the number one concern when it comes to protecting citizens of Dickinson. In order to be adequately prepared for storm events, citizens need to be made aware of some critical information. It is important to know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning. A flash flood watch is flooding that is possible in your area. A flash flood warning is flooding that is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. 

Be Prepared

The best time to make sure you are ready for the next storm event is before one is headed your way. Have the following emergency supplies available in order to be prepared:

• Non-perishable foods and water containers
• More than one flashlight and extra batteries
• First-aid kit, along with any prescription medicine
• Extra plywood (preferably heavy, pre-cut, and pre-drilled) to cover windows
• Plastic sheeting (for water leaks)
• Camera for photos of damage
• Cell phone with chargers
• Copies of personal documents (birth certificates, insurance policies, pertinent medical information, deed/lease to home)
• Extra cash

View on Flood Preparation and Safety for more tips on what you can do to prepare for the next flood. Sign-up on DickinsonCONNECT to receive emergency alert notifications by email, text or phone call.

Other Safety Tips

• Learn the safest route from your home or business to higher safer ground from the Houston-Galveston Council page.
• If Emergency Management Officials tell you to evacuate or leave your home, go immediately to a safe shelter, hotel, or relative's house.
• Before you leave turn off all utilities, gas, and electricity at the main switch. Stay away from power and electrical lines. Be alert for gas leaks.
• Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the number one cause of flood related deaths. Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
• Do not drive through a flooded area. More people drown in their cars than in any other location. Remember Turn Around Don't Drown!

Recovering From Flood Damage

Returning to your home after a major flood event can sometimes be overwhelming. The Federal Trade Commission and State of Texas Attorney General's Office has information that can help you pick up the pieces and avoid the pitfalls homeowners fall into after a flooding event.