Question

Franklin’s hometown is flooding due to a severe storm. He is evacuating the area in his vehicle. What should he do if he comes across a flooded area or flowing water?

Answer 1

Short answer: Turn around—don’t drive through flooded roads or flowing water.

What to do
- Turn around and find a different route. Roads may be washed out under the water even if they look passable.
- Obey road-closed signs and barricades. They are there for your safety.
- Never drive through moving water. Six inches of fast-moving water can knock a person down; about 12 inches can carry away a small car; 18–24 inches can float most vehicles.
- Never walk through flowing water. It can hide hazards and have strong currents.
- If your vehicle stalls in rising water, get out immediately and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. If you cannot safely exit, stay in the vehicle, call 911, and signal for help.
- Avoid bridges over fast-moving water; they can be compromised or swept away.
- Don’t drive at night through flooded areas—you can’t judge depth or see hazards.

Other precautions
- Keep your phone charged and emergency kit accessible.
- Tell someone your route if you must detour.
- Avoid contact with floodwater when possible (contamination, downed power lines).

If you’re unsure whether it’s safe, assume it’s not — turn around and find an alternate, higher route.