INFORMATION BULLETIN

2012JAG0113-000900 June 20, 2012

Ministry of Justice

 

Staying safe around flood waters

 

VICTORIA – In emergency flood situations, residents near any body of water are advised to be particularly careful around high water.

 

Here are some tips:

 

Walking:

·         Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go the other way – six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.

·         Never underestimate the swiftness of the water – flooded rivers and streams are unpredictable. Even though the surface water may be smooth, the water is moving very fast.

·         If you have to walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.

 

Driving:

·         If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way.

·         Never stay with your car in a flooded area – if your car stalls, abandon it immediately and get away from the water to safety.

·         If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground – most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.

 

Boating:

·         Flood time is not a time for play – flooded streams and rivers are not safe for recreational boating.

·         Boaters who must be on the water should use caution - be aware that your wake can cause greater flooding issues on land. Be courteous.

 

Around dams or dikes:

·         Do not walk on dams or dikes.

·         Stay away from dikes and flood control devices – there is a high potential to be carried away by swift currents.

·         Heed warnings around flood-control devices.

 

 

Children and pets:

·         Do not let children in or near any flood water!

·         Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.

·         Never let children play near rivers or storm drains when the water is rising or high – swimming skills have nothing to do with surviving in a flooded river.

·         Pets can get into trouble, too – there have been cases of people drowning trying to rescue their pets.

·         Keep your family and yourself safe.

 

 

To stay up to date on all alerts and public safety notices, visit: www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca

 

 

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement Ministry of Justice 250 356-6961

 

Connect with the Province of B.C. at: www.gov.bc.ca/connect