TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN
What Is Turn Around Don't Drown™ (TADD)?
TADD is a NOAA National Weather Service campaign to warn people of the
hazards of walking or driving a vehicle through flood waters.
Why is Turn Around Don't Drown™ So Important?
Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other severe
weather related hazard. The Centers for Disease Control report that over
half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into
hazardous flood water. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths
is due to walking into or ear flood waters.Why? The main reason is people
underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in
automobiles as they are swept downstream. Of these drownings, many are
preventable, but too many people continue to drive around the barriers
that warn you the road is flooded.
What Can I Do to Avoid Getting Caught is This Situation?
Most flood-related deaths and injuries could be avoided if people who
come upon areas covered with water followed this simple advice: Turn
Around Don't Drown.
The reason that so many people drown during flooding is because few of them
realize the incredible power of water. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood
water can knock over an adult. It takes only two feet of rushing water to
carry away most vehicles. This includes pickups and SUVs.
If you come to an area that is covered with water, you will not know the
depth of the water or the condition of the ground under the water. This is
especially true at night, when your vision is more limited.
Play it smart, play it safe. Whether driving or walking, any time you come
to a flooded road, TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN!
Follow these safety rules:
- Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio, or your favorite news source for vital
weather related information.
- If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject
to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes etc.
- Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast.
Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Turn
Around Don't Drown
- Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through
flooded roadways. Turn Around Don't Drown
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly
during threatening conditions.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood
dangers.
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