FLOOD SAFETY AWARENESS WEEK: TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN

Written by: Brian Neudorff

Turn Around Don't Drown or 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 main reason is people underestimate the force and power of water. More than half of all flood related deaths result from vehicles being swept downstream. Of these, many are preventable.

What can i do to avoid getting caught is this situation?

Follow these safety rules: monitor the NOAA weather radio all hazards, 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.