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Environmental Health and Safety • 2408 Wanda Daley Drive • Ames, Iowa 50011-3602 • (515) 294-5359 •
www.ehs.iastate.eduFlash Flood Safety
Flash floods are exactly what the name suggest: floods that happen in a flash! Second only to heat related
deaths, flooding results in more deaths on average than any other weather hazard. Most occur at night, when
it is more difficult to recognize flood dangers, and when people are trapped in vehicles. Do you and your family
know what to do in case of a flood?
Remember…
• Don’t underestimate the power of water!
• Remain aware of the situation. Water levels and the rate water is flowing can quickly change!
•
DO NOT
drive onto a flooded roadway or through flowing water. If you approach a roadway that is flooded,
TURN AROUND - DON’T DROWN.
•
DO NOT
go into any room if water is covering electrical outlets or cords. If you see sparks or hear buzzing,
crackling, snapping or popping noises - Get Out!
If a Flash Flood Warning is issued for your area…
• If advised to evacuate, do so
immediately
!
Act
quickly to save yourself. Get out of areas that are
subject to flooding and move to a safe area before
access is cut off by flood waters.
• DO NOT
camp or park your vehicle along streams and
washes during threatening conditions.
• DO NOT
drive if not necessary. 12-18 inches of water
can carry away most vehicles. Do not drive over a
flooded road, the depth of the water may not be obvious
and the roadway may no longer be intact. Never drive
around a barricade, they are there for your protection!
If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and move
to higher ground before water sweeps you and your
vehicle away.
• DO NOT
try to walk, swim, or play in flood water! You
may not be able to determine if there are holes or submerged debris or how quickly the water is flowing. You
may be swept away! If water is moving swiftly, as little as 6 inches of water can knock you off of your feet!
There is also a danger of hazardous materials polluting the water. Also remember that water is an electrical
conductor, if there are power lines down, there is a threat of electrocution.
• Always continue to monitor the situation through the National Weather Service website, your NOAA Weather
Radio All-Hazards and favorite local television or radio stations.
For more information and safety tips, visit our
loodpage.