Lexington, Nebraska

The annual flood safety awareness week Campaign hosted by the
National Weather Service comes to an end today.

The final topic for today is flood safety.

Based on a 30 year period... floods are the deadliest severe weather
related killer in the United States... second only to heat waves in
the number of all weather related deaths. More than half of these
deaths are drownings that result from vehicles caught in flood
waters and then swept downstream. Eight percent of all flood deaths
occur when people drive on flooded roadways or simply walk
through moving water. Many of these drownings are
preventable... but people often underestimate the force of water.

Flooding can occur nationwide... and takes many different
forms... from river flooding to flash flooding to snowmelt flooding.
It can occur anywhere and at any time. Many people do not realize
that as little as 6 inches of quick moving water can knock a person
off of their feet. A water depth of 18 to 24 inches can float most
automobiles... including trucks and sport utility vehicles. While
most floods cannot be prevented... there are simple steps you can
take to protect your life and property.

The following is a quick summary of safety tips you can use to help
protect yourself in case of a flood.

If flooding occurs... get to higher ground and stay away from areas
that are subject to flooding.

Do not allow anyone to walk or play near high water... storm
drains... or ditches. Hidden dangers could lie beneath the water...
and a person could be swept away.

Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by the water.
Never drive across floodwaters or flooded roads. Never ignore
barricades... as they are placed there for your protection.

Do not Camp or park your vehicle along streams or
washes... particularly when threatening weather conditions exist.

Be especially cautious at night when it is much more difficult to
recognize flood dangers.

Prepare a family disaster plan... and check to make sure that your
insurance covers flood damage.

Additional information about flood safety awareness week is
available at www.Floodsafety.NOAA.Gov.