Interim Recommendations for Driving Safely in a Disaster Location
These interim recommendations are based on current knowledge as of October 21, 2005 ; the recommendations will be updated and revised as appropriate, as additional information becomes available.
- Use your safety belt at all times.
- Drive at a speed that is safe for road and weather conditions.
- Recognize that traffic control information may not be posted because of damage to traffic signs.
- Stop lights and street signs may be missing or not working – Treat intersections where lights are out as a four-way stop.
- Recognize that police/law enforcement may be unable to enforce traffic laws.
- Be alert for trash in the road and for road damage.
- Be alert for trash falling from haul trucks and other vehicles.
- Keep space between you and other vehicles.
- Make sure to secure cargo or trash carried by your vehicle - shifting loads may fall or make the vehicle unstable.
- Avoid driving through water, especially when it is fast moving.
- As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your car or truck.
- Two feet of water will carry most cars away.
- Do not drive through standing water if fallen electrical wires are in the water.
- Avoid driving when tired, fatigued, or upset.
- Do not use a cell phone while operating a vehicle.
- Avoid other distractions, such as eating, drinking, or adjusting vehicle controls, while driving.
- Plan your route in advance.
- Page last updated October 21, 2005
- Page last reviewed June 15, 2006
- Content source: CDC Emergency Communication System (ECS), Division of Health Communication and Marketing (DHCM), National Center for Health Marketing (NCHM)
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