Home Human Interest Human interest Staying safe around flood waters

PostHeaderIcon Staying safe around flood waters

Human interest

062012_sheep_creek

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.

(Photos:  The Fraser River on the rise at Sheep Creek bridge June 10, 2012.)

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.

062012_sheep_creek_2

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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