Did you know that flash floods are the number one weather-related killer in the United States? Floods can occur anywhere, especially in the state of Florida. Most of the fatalities occur when people try to drive through deadly waters rather than dodge them. Here's what to do during a flooded area:
Pay attention to barricades - You should never ignore important roadblocks; the roads are probably barricaded for a good reason: your safety!
Do not drive through standing water - The average automobile can be off the ground with as little as 12 inches of moving water. Additionally, Attempting to drive through deep water may stall your engine, with the potential risk of irreversible engine damage. If you see a flooded street ahead of you, please turn around and take an alternative path.
Take extra precautions if you have to drive through large amounts of water - If no alternate route is available to you and you have to drive through heaps of water, please consider the following tips:
- Try your best to estimate the depth of the water.
- Drive slowly and steadily through the water.
- Never drive in water that electrical or power lines have fallen into
- If the water is up to the wheel rims or higher, please test your brakes at low speed. If they are not stopping the vehicle as they should, dry them off by pushing gently on the brake pedal with your left foot while maintaining a slow pace with your right foot.
- Keep your telephone away unless you have to report an injury or an accident.
- If your vehicle stalls in the deep water, consider restarting your engine. If you can't restart your car and get stuck in deep water, please abandon your car. If you are unable to get out of your vehicle safely, please call for assistance.
We hope some of these tips help you. Regardless of whether or not you've been in this intense situation or not, it would be wise to know just in case. For all your automotive repair needs, please do not hesitate to call or visit Allyz Auto today!