American Red Cross urges caution to South Florida as Tropical Depression 3 forms near the Bahamas

Miami — The National Hurricane Center has issued a Tropical Storm Warning from Miami-Dade County south to the Florida Keys. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Broward County. Forecasters expect weather conditions to deteriorate by Friday when rainfall of two to four inches and isolated maximums of five to six inches are possible.

Storm surge will raise water levels by as much as one to two feet above ground level over portions of the Florida Keys.

A Tropical Storm warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected within the warning area within 36 hours. A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area, generally within 48 hours.

The American Red Cross encourages everyone in South Florida to follow these safety tips:

· Check your home emergency kit to make sure you have enough food, water and supplies for you, your family and your pets for at least the next three days.

· Listen to your local radio and television news reports and NOAA Weather Radio for more information regarding the Tropical Storm and possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in your area.

· If ordered to evacuate, do so.

· Stay away from flood waters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet.

· If you come across a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

· Keep children out of the water.

· Be especially careful at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.

· Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from floods associated with hurricanes and tropical storms. For more information, visit www.floodsmart.gov.

After the Storm

· If you left your home, return only after officials say it’s safe.

· Before entering your home look for loose power lines, damaged gas lines, foundation cracks or other damage.

· If you smell natural or propane gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and call the fire department.

· If power lines are down around your house, do not step in puddles or standing water

· Parts of your home may be damaged or collapsed. Approach entrances carefully. See if porch roofs or overhangs have all their supports in place.

· Watch out for wild animals, including poisonous snakes that may have come into your home with the floodwaters.

· Keep children and pets away from hazardous sites and floodwater.

· During cleanup, wear protective clothing including rubber gloves and rubber boots.

· Make sure your food and water are safe. Discard items that have come in contact with floodwater including canned goods, water bottles, plastic utensils and baby bottle nipples. When in doubt, throw it out!

· Do not use water that could be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or make baby formula.

· Contact your local or state health department for specific recommendations on boiling water.