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Turn Around Don’t Drown® (TADD) is a National Weather Service safety campaign to warn people of the hazards of walking or driving through flood waters.
Each year, more deaths occur because of flooding than from any other weather-related hazard. More than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven through floodwaters or people walking closely to, or in, the actual flood. Too often, people underestimate the force and power of water.
Many deaths in vehicles as they are being swept downsream. Of these drownings, many are peventable, but too many people continue to drive around barriers that block flooded roadways. If you come upon roads or areas covered by floodwater, remember this simple advice: Turn Around Don’t Drown®.
A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just two feet of rushing water to carry away vehicles such as SUVs and trucks.
If you come to an area that is covered with water, it is hard to tell the depth of the water or the condition of the ground underneath. This is especially true at night, when your vision is more limited. Play it smart. Play it safe. Whether driving or walking, any time you come to a flooded roadway, Turn Around Don’t Drown®.
Additional TADD Safety Rules:
Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio or your local news source for vital weather-related information.
If flooding in your area occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding, which includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc.
Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Never attempt to cross flowing streams.
Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. Never drive or walk through flooded roadways.
Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams or washes, particularly during threatening weather conditions.
Be especially cautious at night, when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
