In emergency flood situations, residents near any body of
water are advised to be particularly careful around high water.
Here are some tips:
Walking:
* Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where
water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go the other way - six
inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
* Never underestimate the swiftness of the water - flooded rivers and
streams are unpredictable. Even though the surface water may be smooth,
the water is moving very fast.
* If you have to walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water
is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front
of you.
Driving:
* If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go
another way.
* Never stay with your car in a flooded area - if your car stalls,
abandon it immediately and get away from the water to safety.
* 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.
Boating:
* Flood time is not a time for play - flooded streams and rivers are not
safe for recreational boating.
* Boaters who must be on the water should use caution - be aware that
your wake can cause greater flooding issues on land. Be courteous.
Around dams or dikes:
* Do not walk on dams or dikes.
* Stay away from dikes and flood control devices - there is a high
potential to be carried away by swift currents.
* Heed warnings around flood-control devices.
Children and pets:
* Do not let children in or near any flood water!
* Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack
judgment about running water or contaminated water.
* Never let children play near rivers or storm drains when the water is
rising or high - swimming skills have nothing to do with surviving in a
flooded river.
* Pets can get into trouble, too - there have been cases of people
drowning trying to rescue their pets.
* Keep your family and yourself safe.
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