‘Turn around; don’t drown!’

Flooding is the most common and most deadly natural hazard, according to the Ready Marine Corps’ website, www.ready.marines.mil. Even here in Albany there were significant floods in 1994 and 1998. 

Although it has been 17 years since the area’s last major flood, individuals never know when they may be caught in a situation where the potential for flooding can occur. 

Here are some basic rules people can follow that will help to protect them and their families against the dangers of flooding:

• Know your flood risk. To check your flood risk, visit the website:  https://msc.fema.gov/portal.

   

• Remember that flooding can occur slowly as rain continues to fall for many days or rapidly due to a flash flood. Be aware of your surroundings.

   

• Be vigilant of flood warnings and watches issued by the National Weather Service.

   

• Know your evacuation routes whether at home or on vacation.

   

• If someone sees floodwater on roads, walkways, bridges and on the ground, do not attempt to cross. The depth of the water is not always obvious and the roadbed may be washed out under the water. Moving water has tremendous power. Six inches of moving water has the potential to knock a person off his or her feet, and a foot of water can sweep a vehicle — even a large SUV — off of the road. “Turn around; don’t drown!”