Once The Flood Arrives
Release Date: May 10, 2003
Release Number: 1455-58
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Charleston, WV - With its history of flooding, West Virginians need to know what to do once the flood arrives, according state and federal disaster recovery officials. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been working with West Virginia Office of Emergency Services (WVOES) because of the mid-February storm.
Once the Flood Arrives:
- Don't drive through a flooded area. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else.
- If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground. Many deaths have resulted from attempts to move stalled vehicles.
- Don't walk through flooded areas. As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
- Keep children away from creeks, streams and drainage systems.
- Do not drive through standing or flowing water.
- Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Electrocution is another major source of deaths in floods. Electric current passes easily through water.
- Look out for animals - especially snakes. Animals lose their homes in floods, too. They may seek shelter in yours.
- Take dry clothing, a flashlight and a portable radio with you. Then, wait for help.
- Don't try to swim to safety; wait for rescuers to come to you.
- If outdoors, climb to high ground and stay there.
Last Modified: Monday, 12-May-2003 13:40:22