With severe flooding affecting the area, the nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)® reminds residents to Turn Around, Don't Drown!®. Eighteen to 24 inches of moving water can wash an SUV off of the road. More deaths occur due to flooding each year than from any other thunderstorm or hurricane-related hazard. Many of these casualties are a result of careless or unsuspecting motorists who attempt to navigate flooded roads. FLASH and the National Weather Service warns anyone who comes to a flooded roadway, "Turn Around, Don't Drown!"
Follow these safety rules when flooding occurs in your area:
- Get to higher ground. Stay away from flood-prone areas, including dips, low spots, valleys, ditches, washes, etc.
- Avoid flooded areas or those with rapid water flow. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet.
- Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly when threatening conditions exist.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
- Monitor NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio or your local media for vital weather-related information.
To learn more about how much flooding can cost you, check out this cost of flooding tool provided by FloodSmart. For more home and family safety tips visit the Protect Your Home in a FLASH blog or FLASH.