- Obviously first thing to do during a flood would be to get to higher ground as soon as possible. Even if you already aware of general situation try to stay tuned to local TV or radio for the latest updates and evacuation suggestions.
- There are also few things you should keep in mind during flood evacuation even if you weren’t necessary warned in exactly the same way by your local authorities. In case you know for sure that there is enough time to shut off water, electricity and gas line. During an evacuation, keep in mind that escape routes can be closed after a certain period so before choosing an itinerary take all precautions possible to confirm that you’re going to make it. Do not travel canyons, dry washes, rivers, stream beds, drainage ditches and other high risk flash flooding area even if originally there was no such threat announced.
- If you are swept into fast moving floodwater remember to always go over obstacles, never try to pass under.
- Remember that even low levels of rushing water can be extremely dangerous to cross. Only if water level is above your ankles it could be considered relatively safe to cross. Even if it seems that stream can’t carry you away it is still possible to become its prey after a simple slip or accidental fall.
- For the same reason you should never drive over a flooded road. According to statistics even less then two feet water level will carry away most vehicles. So the best thing to do in the case you come upon a drowned road would be to turn around immediately finding a safe path to follow.
- If your car isn’t moving, do not hesitate to leave it behind. It can be a question of life or death for you to leave it behind and get to the high ground immediately. However, if you completely surrounded by water and its level is stable you may want to stay put waiting for rescue in case you don’t feel capable to cross even sustained flood level. Remember that there is no such guide which will equally safely lead you through every feasible situation. In spite of any and every instruction given during actual disaster it would most likely be your personal decision.
- So if your car is swept into the water the best thing to suggest would be not to panic. If stream is strong you might want to let your vehicle to let fill with water and then holding your breath swim to the surface.
- Generally speaking careful driving at night, for it is much difficult to notice flood dangers in time.