Water, Water Everywhere

9/24/2020 (Permalink)

Floodwaters are powerful, unpredictable, and dangerous.

Drivers and pedestrians in Edmond, OK, take a life-threatening risk when choosing to navigate a flooded street, especially in weather with heavy rain and driving winds. The National Weather Service strongly urges people to stay off flooded roads and to avoid flood-prone areas. The reasons are sobering.

Just 6 inches of rushing water can knock adults off their feet. A foot of moving water can wash away a small vehicle, and 2 feet can wash away most cars — even SUVs. It takes only a foot of water to float many vehicles, and once your car floats, you are powerless, at the mercy of rampaging floodwater. Here are a few travel tips and at-home guidelines to stay water-safe:

On The Road - When driving, closely monitor extreme weather conditions:

1. Avoid flooded areas, especially during stormy weather — rising water can gush into your vehicle in minutes, even seconds.

2.Remember that just 6 inches of water can cause a loss of control or stalling.
Never drive on a flooded street — it may be deeply cratered or washed out, and manhole covers may be missing.

3. Don't try to drive across fast-flowing streams that can swell rapidly and engulf your car.
If floodwaters overwhelm your vehicle, call emergency services. If safe, abandon it and try to reach higher ground.

At-Home Safety - Take precautions if your home is subject to the hazards of flooding:

1. Bring outdoor items inside or tie them down.
2. Drink only clean, safe water. Do not drink or use floodwater.
3. Dispose of food contaminated by disease-spreading floodwaters.
4. As a general rule, throw out all water-affected items.
5. After waters recede, thoroughly clean your home. Consider bringing in the services of water damage experts.

Floodwaters are powerful, unpredictable, and dangerous. Whether driving or walking, a flooded street should always be a no-go zone. At home, lower your health and expense risks by having a comprehensive flood plan at the ready.