Release Date: Mar 16, 2009
File:

Summary:
The Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management is teaming up with the National Weather Service and other agencies to promote National Flood Safety Awareness Week from March 16 – 20, 2009. 

This year's goal is to bring attention to the different kinds of flooding, the hazards associated with flooding, and what people can do to protect lives and properties.

Know the difference between a flood and a flash flood:
A Flood occurs when there is an overflow of water onto normally dry land. Flooding is caused by rising water in an existing waterway such as a river, stream or drainage ditch. Flooding can occur when melting snow combines with heavy rain in the winter and early spring and when severe thunderstorms bring heavy rain in the spring and summer.

Flash Flooding can occur within six hours of a rain event; or after a dam or levee failure; or following a sudden release of water held back by ice or debris jam. Flash floods often catch people unprepared because there may not be a warning that these sudden, potentially deadly floods are coming.

Along with Flood Safety Awareness Week, the National Weather Service promotes the "Turn Around, Don't Drown" (TADD) safety campaign to warn people of the hazards of driving vehicles or walking through flood waters.

To avoid getting caught in flooded areas and risking life and safety, the NWS and the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness suggest the following tips:

• Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio or local TV or radio station for vital weather-related information.
• If flooding occurs, move to higher ground immediately. Leave areas subject to flooding. This includes dips in roads, low spots, canyons and washes.
• Never allow children to play near high water, storm drains or ditches. Hidden dangers, such as broken glass or debris, often lie beneath the water. In addition, flowing floodwaters can easily sweep children and adults away.
• Avoid areas that are already flooded, especially if the floodwaters are flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams on foot or in vehicles. It only takes six inches of fast flowing water to sweep a person off his/her feet. Turn Around Don't Drown.
• Never drive on a flooded road. Flooded roads often have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. In addition, most vehicles lose contact with the road in six inches of water and can be swept away in 18 or 24 inches of water. Turn Around Don't Drown.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams or washes, particularly when threatening weather conditions exist.
• Be especially cautious when driving at night. It is harder to recognize flood dangers.

For more information on flood safety, contact the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management at (937) 224-8934.