Get prepared for winter storms that could cause localized flooding, dangerous driving conditions and extended power outages.
Reporting Storm-Related Incidents
Report non-emergency storm-related hazards to the City, such as localized flooding, fallen trees or limbs, and plugged storm drains by calling 916-355-8344.
Traffic signals or street lights out and street signs down can be reported from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. by calling 916-355-8348.
After hours, contact the City of Folsom Police Department dispatch line at 916-355-7231. Call 911 in the event of a storm-related emergency, such as a downed power line, downed trees on live wires, or a life-threatening emergency.
Storm Preparedness
It's important to be prepared for a wet winter at your home or business. The City of Folsom is encouraging residents and businesses to get prepared for winter storms that could cause localized flooding, dangerous driving conditions and power outages.
Preparing for a Storm
' Clear your drains, rain gutters, and downspouts of debris. Put leaves and other yard debris in your green waste container, and help keep storm drains free of leaves and debris during rains. Trim trees and remove broken branches.
' Consider obtaining flood insurance or checking your existing policy to make sure you have enough coverage.
' Make an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, water, nonperishable food and other essentials in case of a power outage.
' The City of Folsom, in cooperation with the Sacramento County Office of Emergency Services, uses an alert system to notify residents of emergencies. To register or obtain additional information for that service, go to http://www.sacramento-alert.org/.
' Have an emergency plan in place. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website www.ready.gov has valuable information on how you can prepare your family for an emergency.
' Secure all loose lawn and patio furniture or other loose items in your yard when a storm is approaching.
' If your property has a history of flooding, prepare your property with sand and sandbags in advance of the storm. The City has opened sandbag stations, and will offer free sandbag materials next to Fire Station 36 at 9700 Oak Avenue Parkway and behind City Hall at 50 Natoma Street. Sandbags are also available at online retailers and home improvement stores. Learn more at www.folsom.ca.us/sandbags.
During the Storm
' Monitor local weather forecasts.
National Weather Service Forecast System Information Line 979-3051 or www.weather.gov/sacramento
Local radio stations: KFBK, 1530 AM or KSTE, 650 AM
Local television stations: KCRA 3, Fox 40, News 10, CBS 13/31 & Univision 19
' Use sandbags to divert water from entrances to your home.
' Report power outages to your utility provider.
' Drive slowly and avoid flooded areas. Even swiftly flowing shallow water can sweep a car from the road. Self-rescue attempts can lead to further injury or even death. Do not exit a vehicle if stranded mid-stream. Folsom Fire Department personnel can help safely rescue those in need. Bicyclists and pedestrians should also avoid flowing water and seek higher ground.
' Report non-emergency storm-related hazards to the City, such as localized flooding, fallen trees or limbs, and plugged storm drains by calling 916-355-8344.
' Traffic signals or street lights out and street signs down can be reported from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. by calling 916-355-8348. After hours, contact the City of Folsom Police Department dispatch line at 916-355-7231.
' Call 911 in the event of a storm-related emergency, such as a downed power line, downed trees on live wires, or a life-threatening emergency.
' Residents can also submit hazards through the City of Folsom's new online and mobile app Folsom Connect. Simply provide a location, description and a photo as you see the issue in real time. Once it has been submitted to the City, it will be routed and promptly addressed.
' If advised by local authorities to evacuate, move immediately to a safe area.
' Check on your neighbors, especially elderly or disabled persons, or families with infants
Stay informed at the City of Folsom's website at www.folsom.ca.us or the Sacramento County's storm preparedness website www.FloodReady.org.
Sandbags can be used to prevent or reduce flood damage and may be picked up at two city locations at no charge to Folsom residents.
Folsom City Hall (behind Folsom Senior Center/Gallery at 48 Natoma)
48 Natoma Street
Folsom, CA 95630
Folsom Fire Station 36
9700 Oak Avenue Parkway
Folsom, CA 95630
Wet Weather Driving Tips
Driving in wet weather can be hazardous. Here are some useful hints and tips from the Folsom Police Department to stay safe this rainy season.
Preparing Your Car
' Are your windshield wipers in good condition?
' Do your tires have plenty of tread and are they properly inflated?
' Is the defroster working properly?
' Are the vehicle's head and brake lights working?
' Are the brakes in good condition?
Driving in Rain
' Slow down and keep extra space between you and the car in front of you
' Allow extra travel time to your destination
' Defog your windows
' Never drive your car through deep water on a flooded road
' Keep your headlights on and use low beams in fog
' Be aware of the spray coming from passing trucks ands oncoming cars
' Brake gently to avoid skidding or hydroplaning
' Do not use cruise control
' Wear your seatbelt
' Turn down the radio and avoid using your cell phone
' If conditions become too intense, pull far off the road in a safe place to wait out the storm