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What Makes a Flood So Dangerous?

Floods present numerous dangers to life and limb, including possible drowning, exposure to bacteria and pollutants and threats from wildlife transported by flood waters. The best possible defense is to evacuate the area when there is a chance of flooding, but becoming familiar with the dangers and how to avoid them, can help you survive a flood.

  1. Flooded Roads

    • Rather than drive through flood waters on the road, turn around and find an alternate route. It only takes 18 to 24 inches of moving water to sweep a car away. An additional 6 to 12 inches of water will sweep away trucks and SUVs. Creeks, rivers and rains can wash away the road beneath the water which makes the water appear shallower than it is.

    Rushing Waters

    • Walking through flood waters presents similar dangers to driving through them. It takes only six inches of moving water to sweep a person off of her feet. Move to higher ground and remain there until the flood has subsided.

    Contact with Contaminated Waters

    • Another danger of walking in flood waters is animal life carried away in the flood waters, i.e. poisonous snakes, as well as bacteria which can cause illness. Raw sewage and pollutants that can cause illness also may have entered the flood waters.

    Consuming Contaminated Waters

    • The same bacterias and pollutants that contaminate flood waters can contaminate drinking water supplies. Fill bathtubs, sinks and jugs with tap water before each storm so you have adequate stores if the drinking water does become contaminated. You also can melt ice cubes. If authorities announce that the water supply has become contaminated, start using your clean, stored water.

    Broken Utilities

    • The strong currents of flood waters can damage utility lines, i.e. gas and electric. If you smell gas, open a window, then evacuate. If you can safely, turn off the gas outside main valve, then get away from the building and call the gas company. Flood waters can hide downed electrical lines. You could be electrocuted by entering these flood waters. If sewage or water lines have sustained damage, your water supply may be contaminated. If the water line is damaged, do not consume water from the tap. Report any utility damage to the appropriate company immediately.

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