GREENSBORO, N.C. -- Some of the roadways along the North Carolina coast are starting to look like rivers as Hurricane Florence gets closer and closer to the shore.
The Greensboro Fire Department has already sent one swift water rescue crew to Pender County, just north of Wilmington. Their other crew is staying in Guilford County to deal with any flooding in the Triad. They're prepared for any scenario and they want you to be, too.
If flood water starts coming into your home, get to higher ground and call 911. Higher ground could mean a higher floor in your home or it could be a neighbor's home up the road. When you call 911, tell them where you are and how high the water is.
"If you start getting to a point where it's not that bad but you know the water's rising, go evacuate," says Christopher Susi, Special Operations Battalion Chief with the Greensboro Fire Department. "Don't wait until it's too late ."
Susi says cars can float in just a few inches of water, so be careful if you need to evacuate. Have a plan and a go-bag ready. Rescue crews also take time to assess the water.
"We’re going to handle all life safety situation first," Susi says. "We may evaluate what the neighborhood is looking like. Is the water receding? Is it rising? Who’s in the most dangerous situation? We’re going to address those issues first. Water contamination is an issue we face. It’s just a matter of making sure we’re safe and every one we’re going to see is safe."
Susi says call 911 if you are facing a flood is the best way to get help and let crews know where you are. He says all rescues are different and some could take longer than others depending on the situation.