Dallas Raines shares 7 tips to stay safe during El Nino

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- El Nino season is here and your favorite weatherman Dallas Raines has some helpful tips for you to stay safe and dry.

1. Remove excess waste around the home

Make any necessary repairs to your home before the rains start and that includes cleaning out gutters and removing leaves and brush from the front yard. You should also check your roof for wear and any damage.

Dallas said animal waste is one of the leading causes of ocean water pollution because it can often be flushed down the storm drains. Read the full story here.

2. Residents living in burn areas should use extra protection

Anyone living in a community that suffered damage from a brush fire, such as Glendora or Camarillo Springs, should take extra precautions and buy sandbags.

As a series of El Nino-related storms kick off the first week of the new year, thousands of sandbags and K-rails were being placed around homes, storm drains and along streets. Read full story here.

3. Consider buying flood insurance

Californians in flood-prone areas are being warned to buy their insurance now.

While California is usually known for earthquakes, the drought-stricken state is also prone to flooding. Homeowners should consider buying flood insurance, especially if you live in a flood zone.

Most policies take time to kick in so you should start shopping for one now. Read full story here.

4. Make sure your tires are weather ready

You should check your car's tires and replace them if the tread is worn by more than 50 percent. You should also check your wiper blades and have them replaced, too.

Consult your auto care professional to help you make sure your car is in tip-top shape.

5. Always have an emergency kit

You should always have an emergency kit in your car in case anything happens. AAA recommends cold weather gear, extra water, a blanket and jumper cables among other items.

For a full list of essential items and other recommendations from AAA, read the full story here.

6. Stay away from trouble spots on the road

Significant rainfall is expected this winter due to El Nino, and that means there's potential for serious problems on our roads.

Heavy downpours can turn roads into small rivers and some areas, such as a stretch of Interstate 5 through the Grapevine, can turn into flooded, mud-filled spots.

Dangerous pools of water can collect under freeway underpasses and tunnels. Flooded streets swallowed up cars from Ventura to the San Fernando Valley during the 1998 El Nino season.

For more tips on avoiding trouble spots, read our full story here.

7. Keep yourself up to date on latest weather developments

Make sure you're always on top of the weather forecast when storms are near. Download our MEGADOPPLER weather app to get our up-to-date weather coverage. Download the app here.

If there are some tips you'd like to share with us, let us know in the comments below!