This week is National Flood Safety Awareness Week (March 16 – 22, 2014).

To help clarify some misconceptions about water and flooding, let me make it very clear – NEVER drive through flooded roads. Here’s a great example. We were dispatched after a few reported calls of a flooded roadway. Looks innocent enough right?

Just because it’s downhill does NOT mean it is any safer…in fact, it is more dangerous.

1. Gravity will move/flow the water faster.
2. More water will cause you to lose control of your vehicle or possibly sink your vehicle and/or drown you.
3. More water will remain at the bottom of the hill will definitely cause damage to your vehicle.

So how can you share this safety message with others?

• Continue to share the message of Turn Around, Don’t Drown = #TADD (National safety campaign phrase)
• Flash flooding can occur anywhere – even within metropolitan and urban areas.
• Avoid areas that are frequently flooded.
• Always follow instructions from your local emergency service professionals.
• Report any flooded roadways to the proper authorities.
• NEVER drive through flooded roads.

It’s really bad news if we have to meet like this…

If you were wondering, that’s me on the right

Do your part in #Prepared2014 by being safe this year.

@rusnivek