Tips for drivers and pedestrians during floods

With the recent and continual heavy downpours, motorists and pedestrians are advised to be cautious on the roads.

The advice comes after massive flooding and traffic chaos on January 5 at the N3 Gillooly’s Interchange.

Arrive Alive provided some safety tips to avoid being a victim of flash floods.

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Keep calm and think fast

Should you be caught in a flash flood, do not drive through or over flooded roads or bridges.

Turn back and try a higher route, but don’t stay in the flooded area.

If your vehicle becomes surrounded by water, exit it and seek higher ground.

Should you be stranded in a tree or building, do not leave it to enter the flood water.

Make an alarm and wait for rescuers.

What to do when facing a flash flood

• Be aware of your car’s limitations. If you drive through water 15cm deep or more, you could lose control of the car and stall. Furthermore, 30cm of water is enough to float most cars, and 60cm of rushing water can carry away cars, SUVs and more.

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• Do not panic if your car becomes submerged in flood waters. Release your seat belt, roll down your window and exit the car.

If your windows will not open, let the car fill with water.

Once that happens, you will be able to open the doors.

Get out of the car immediately and swim to the surface.

Never stay in the car until it sinks.

• If you get swept up in fast-moving water, ensure your feet point downstream if possible and try to direct your body over obstacles rather than under them.

• If you are on foot, be aware that just 15cm of moving water could knock you down.

• If you come upon moving water, do not walk into it.

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Try to avoid contact with any flood waters.

The water could be contaminated with raw sewage, oil or gasoline and may also be charged with electricity from downed power lines.

• Be especially vigilant at night when it is harder to recognise potentially deadly road hazards.

• Do not camp or park your car along rivers or washes, especially during heavy rains or thunderstorms.

• Stay informed. Tune in to your local radio station during bad weather. If a flash flood notice is issued for your area, get to higher ground immediately.

You may only have a few seconds before the danger is unavoidable.

Precautions

• People living in low-lying areas must take special care during storms because sudden floods could affect them.

• Residents living beside rivers and streams must evacuate to a safer place or a higher elevation when the water level rises.

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• Never try to walk, swim or drive in swift-flowing water. Even if the water is 15cm deep, it could sweep you off your feet.

• Do not try to drive over a low-water bridge if water is flowing strongly across it.

• Teach your children not to swim in rivers, streams and ponds in open areas.

• Keep your crucial documents in a water-resistant container.

• Have emergency numbers close at hand.