Flooding is a highly-underrated killer. Most flood-related deaths occur either at night, or when people become trapped in automobiles that stall while driving through flooded areas. There are two types of floods. By far, the most common in our area is the Flash Flood, which is usually caused by heavy thunderstorm rains. Areas most susceptible to flash flooding are near streams and rivers, urban areas, low-lying area, storm drains, and culverts. THe second type of flood is River Flooding, which is caused by a gradual increase in water level of a river or creek. When these floods occur in our area, it is usually due to torrential rains associated with tropical weather systems.

When flooding occurs: Know (before the rain even begins) if your home is at risk of flooding. Prepare to head for higher ground if neccessary (and have multiple escape routes planned, in case one is blocked by water or debris). Do not drive through flooded areas. There are too many variables that you cannot easily judge, including the depth of the water, the possiblity that your vehicle might stall, and the possility that the roadway may have collapsed underneath. In Heard County, a woman had to be rescued because she drove onto a bridge that had floodwater covering it. The flooding had washed away the pavement, leaving only metal support beams underneath. Remember: "Turn Around; Don't Drown." If you decide to ignore these warnings and drive through a flooded area anyway, be prepared for the possibility that your vehicle will stall due to water. If it does, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may sweep the vehicle away. Do not walk through floodwater. In addition to the risk of drowning, you will have no way of knowing what contaminants (or slithering creatures!) may be mixed in.