Crime & Safety

Department of Fire and Rescue: Heed Safety Warnings

With the huge amount of rain today could cause area flooding.

From the Department of Fire and Rescue:

Prince William County Department of Fire and Rescue (www.pwcgov.org/fire) would like to remind the community that flooding and the hazards associated with flooding can take place anywhere at anytime especially when large amounts of rainfall is predicted.  

Fire and rescue units respond to numerous flood-related incidents in which motorists became trapped in their vehicles after attempting to cross flooded roadways.  This is often due to victims underestimating the power and force of the water which can result in deadly incidents -- the second highest percentage of flood-related deaths. To protect you and your loved ones should flooding occur, heed the warnings and follow these life-saving tips:

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  • Get out of areas subject to flooding and seek higher ground.
  • Avoid underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements during or after heavy rains.
  • Turn Around, Don't Drown (TADD)
    • DO NOT attempt to cross flowing streams. 
    • NEVER drive through flooded roadways -- six inches of water can stall a vehicle!
      • If your vehicle stalls, get out and move to higher ground.
      • 2 feet of moving water can sweep a vehicle, including SUVs, downstream!
  • If walking in water that is above your ankles, stop and turn around – six inches of rushing water can sweep you off your feet!
  • At night, be cautious when driving or walking, visibility is poor and it becomes harder to recognize flood dangers.
  • Children should NEVER play around high water, storm drains, streams, ditches, etc.
  • When conditions are dangerous, DO NOT camp or park your vehicle along waterways, i.e. streams, rivers, etc.


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