Captain Brown of Dolton Fire Department warns residents: do not enter flooded basements or drive through standing water

Captain Brown of the Dolton Fire Department warned residents on the Fourth of July to avoid entering flooded basements and to avoid driving through standing water after heavy storms caused widespread basement and road flooding.

The advisory, delivered as a short public-safety message, emphasized immediate risks including electrocution, contamination of floodwaters and vehicles becoming stranded. "If your basement is flooded, do not go down there," Captain Brown said, and he urged residents to assess water from a safe location such as a staircase.

The captain told listeners that if floodwater reaches electrical outlets they should not enter the water because of an electrical hazard and potential electrocution. He also instructed anyone who smells natural gas or sewer gas to evacuate the residence immediately and "call 911, call your utility company, whether it's ComEd or Nicor," so crews can respond and assess the situation.

Captain Brown advised keeping children and pets away from standing water and cautioned that floodwater may be contaminated or contain unknown chemicals. He said that if entry into low water is unavoidable, people should wear insulated or rubber boots, protective clothing and gloves and otherwise cover themselves.

Residents were told that, if it is safe to reach their electrical panel, they should shut off breakers and exit the house. For motorists, Captain Brown delivered a blunt admonition: "Do not drive into any standing water. You don't know how deep it could be. You could get your car stuck. Your car could flood." He added that people trapped on flooded roads should call 911 and that emergency responders will come to assist.

The message closed with a reminder to prioritize safety and a holiday wish from the department: "Everybody be safe. Have a safe and happy holiday from the Dolton Fire Department. Thank you."