FAIRHOPE, Ala — The American Red Cross Alabama Region is assisting residents affected by the heavy rain that is moving through Baldwin County. Preliminary damage reports indicate that homes are flooded in Fairhope along Highway 181, north of County Road 44.

The Red Cross has opened a shelter for stranded motorists and those whose homes have flooded. Anyone needing shelter from the heavy rain can go to Fairhope United Methodist Church located at 155 S. S. St., Fairhope.

The Red Cross is working with county emergency management agencies to determine where help may be needed.

The Red Cross recommends using the following safety tips when responding to a flood.

• Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS)
• Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
• When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.
• Stay away from floodwaters. 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 of your feet.
• If you come upon 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. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
• Because standard homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more flood safety tips and information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.