Here in Indiana, weather reports are warning that there will be heavy rains hitting our area this week, and when this is combined with the warmer temperatures melting all that snow out there, there is a high probability that parts of the state is going to be experiencing flooding. Indianapolis is under a flood watch beginning today.
Prepare for Flood Waters With Sandbags Now – Freebies Are Available
Which means that proactive steps are needed now, to protect people and property from the dangers of flood waters. At the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, for example, locals are encouraged to get ready for rising water now by taking advantage of the free sandbags being offered by the County.
Those interested in getting the free sandbags can go to 1717 Pleasant Street in Noblesville during the following hours beginning this afternoon between 6 and 8 p.m. as well as the following weekend schedule:
- Friday 4 – 10 p.m.
- Saturday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Sunday 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
One thing before you get down there to get your freebies: they aren’t filling the bags for you. The sand is free, the bags are free. You have to fill the bags with the sand yourself.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown Campaign
Another danger with flood waters comes to drivers on roads where water is crossing the roadway but it’s not clear how much water is there, or whether or not the water is moving. Each year, there are tragic accidents where Indiana drivers make a mistake about driving into water and end up getting caught up in floodwaters and drowning. It’s so sad when this happens and yet, every year there are flooding deaths which could have been prevented if the driver had decided not to drive onto the patch of water-covered road.
Why do these drivers drive into water that can drown them? Obviously, the water is deceptive. It doesn’t look dangerous, the road looks passible.
There is a national campaign to educate people on the dangers of traffic deaths in flood waters and water-covered roads; created by the National Weather Service, the “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” Campaign seeks to educate people about how dangerous water can be to drivers. The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is actively promoting a “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” campaign this week for the local area.
Avoid a Flooding Accident – Tips on Driving in Flood Conditions
- Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
- A foot of water will float many vehicles.
- Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.
- Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
- Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.
- Do not try to take short cuts. They may be blocked. Stick to designated evacuation routes.
- Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
