GLENDALE FIRE URGING RESIDENTS TO TAKE   EXTREME CAUTION DURING RAINY WEATHER

Glendale, Ariz. –– Governor Jan Brewer has declared a state of emergency after early morning thunderstorms caused record flooding throughout the valley. More rain is expected today. The Glendale Fire Department urges citizens to use extreme caution during the current rainy weather and not to leave their homes unless absolutely necessary. Please follow these tips to stay safe:

· Children need constant supervision around all bodies of water.

· Avoid moving water.

· Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.

· Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.

· If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground. DO NOT attempt to push your car to higher ground as the ground underneath the surface may be unstable.

· Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way.

· Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may also hide animals and broken bottles. Avoid walking or driving through it.

· If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded, stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

· Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.

· Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.

· Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.

Several City of Glendale locations have free sand and sandbags for people who need to prevent flooding in their homes and businesses. The only requirement to distribute the sand is that residents must bring their own shovel. If flooding occurs in and around a home or business, create a barrier with sandbags to divert the water.

Listed below are the addresses where citizens can get the sand and sandbags:

Ø Glendale Fire Support Services: 7505 N. 55th Ave. (Near 55th Ave. & Orangewood)

Ø City of Glendale Community Center North: 14061 N. 59th Ave. (Near 59th Ave. & Hearn)

Ø Glendale Fire Station 156: 6801 W. Deer Valley Avenue

Ø Lions Park: 63rd Avenue and Hayward Avenue

Ø Bonsall Park: Northeast corner of 59th Avenue and Bethany Home Road (next to hockey rink)

For more information related to utilities, public safety and free sandbag distribution, please visit www.glendaleaz.com .