Flood Survival

Floods kill many in the United States each year. Even though half of those deaths are auto-related, experts say that many people are overwhelmed by the sheer brute force of rushing floodwaters. They do not know how to react, and end up falling victim to the rapidly flowing waters around them.

"Raging floodwaters can move faster than a speeding train," says Rocky Lopes of the American Red Cross. "They can move more quickly through a river valley than people have to get in their cars and drive away. The safest thing you can do if floodwaters are coming upon you is to climb to higher ground. We don't recommend driving through any amount of water because you can't tell how deep it is until you're in it."

In addition, the American Red Cross recommends the development of a family disaster plan that includes an escape route, a place to stay until the floodwaters subside, fresh water, a first aid kit, and a radio with extra batteries.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration offers some additional safety tips:

Preparing for a flood:

• Know your flood risk and elevation above flood stage. Do your local streams or rivers flood easily? If so, be prepared to move to a place of safety. Know your evacuation routes.
• Keep your automobile fueled; if electric power is cut off, gas stations may not be able to operate pumps for several days.
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs and in various containers. Water service may be interrupted.
• Keep first aid supplies on hand.
• Keep a NOAA Weather Radio, a battery-powered portable radio, emergency cooking equipment, and flashlights in working order. Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
• Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing: first aid kit, canned food and can opener, bottled water, rubber boots, rubber gloves, NOAA Weather Radio, battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.

During a flood:

• Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.
• If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, STOP! Turn around and go another way.
• Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The roadbed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
• Children should NEVER play around high water, storm drains, viaducts, or arroyos.

After a flood:

• If fresh food has come in contact with floodwaters, throw it out.
• Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking. If in doubt, call your local public health authority.
• Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter, and first aid are available from the Red Cross.
• Do not visit disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
• Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.
• Use flashlights, not lanterns, torches, or matches, to examine buildings. Flammables may be inside.
• Report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities.