Disaster cleanup presents its own unique set of hazards. Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths, with most of these drownings occurring during flash floods. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Use a pole or stick to test the firmness of the ground before you walk through areas where the water has receded. Do not drive through a flooded area .
More people drown in their cars than anywhere else.
If you are driving and come upon rapidly rising waters, turn around and find another route. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground. Stay away from power lines and electrical wires . Report downed power lines to your utility company or local emergency manager. Electrical current can travel through water, so electrocution is a major killer in flooded areas.