Kids and Water

Water is fun, but can be dangerous. It’s important to follow water safety practices while around water. That includes in the house or while enjoying a pool, lake, river or stream. Here are some good practices for water safety:

• Always watch children around any source of water.It only takes a minute of having your back turned for an accident to happen. When watching kids around water, put distractions, such as cell phones and books, out of easy reach to ensure they have your full attention. You will not always be able to hear a drowning accident.
• Don’t have standing water around for children to fall into. Empty tubs, wading pools, buckets and containers of liquid once you are done using them.
• Keep toilet lids and bathroom doors closed with child locks.
• Install a fence around your pool and keep the gate locked.
• Learn CPR. It could save a life.

For more information on children and water safety, contact your local county.

Flash Floods

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. While flooding can cause significant property damage, flash floods form quickly and can become very dangerous and even life-threatening. A flash flood is the rapid flooding of low-lying areas such as washes, rivers and streams.

Flash floods can occur when there is heavy rain upstream or large amounts of meltwater from snow and ice in high regions. It is important to have a basic knowledge of flash flooding.>

• Find out the risk of a flash flood in your area, including increased seasonal risks.
• Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, washes, and other areas where water passes. Flash floods can develop even when there are no visible clouds in the sky.
• Do not walk through moving water if possible. If you must, walk at an angle to the stream flow. Do not walk directly with the flow, or directly perpendicular to it. Move to the side as soon as you can.
• Do not drive into flooded areas, even if you think the water looks shallow. Depths can be tricky to judge and swift moving water can lift a car, truck, or SUV and carry it away with even if it is only a few feet deep.
• If you find yourself stuck in floodwaters and can do it safely, abandon your vehicle and move to higher ground.
• Be aware that some states have a penalty fee for having to be rescued from a flash flood in areas marked with flood warning signs.

Be smart and stay aware of the times of the year most likely to produce flash flooding. For more information on flash floods and other safety hazards check with your local counties.