More Rain Expected

More rain is expected ver the next few days and we want to remind the public about the dangers of potential flooding of roadways. When approaching a flooded roadway, please remember these tips:
· Nearly 50 percent of all flash flood fatalities nationwide involve vehicles. Saving your life can be as easy as turning your car around when you see water on the road. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.· Even in relatively shallow water, tires can act as flotation devices, lifting up big vehicles and sending them downstream. It takes only two feet of water to float a 3,000-pound car.· Beware that water covering roadways may hide washed-out bridges or gouged-out roadbeds. If you attempt to drive across, you may not be driving on a road.· In rainy weather, be alert and stay tuned to local radio or TV.· If you are in a low-lying area when flooding is occurring, get to higher ground quickly. And be sure to avoid canyons and washes that can channel swift water.· Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or streams on foot. It can take as little as six inches of water to knock an adult off his or her feet. Furthermore, water may be flowing more rapidly than it appears.· Never allow children to play near ditches and storm drains.· During stormy weather, do not camp or park vehicles along streams or washes.· Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to see flood dangers.
Also, when driving in wet weather, please keep in mind the following:
Drive SlowlySlowing down is the most important thing you can do when driving in slippery conditions. Driving slow keeps a greater amount of tread in contact with the ground, which gives you more stability and control. Keep a steady pace and avoid sudden turns, braking, and accelerating. You should also try not to pass other cars if possible.Keep a safe distance from the car in front of youIt could take you as much as three times longer to come to a complete stop when the road conditions are wet. Avoid tailgating whenever possible, and be on the watch out for brake lights in front of you and up the road. Leave your headlights on for the benefit of those driving around you.Know what to do when skidding or hydroplaningNever slam your brakes when you begin to lose control of your car on slick surfaces. You should press your breaks steadily and with slight firmness, while steering in the direction you are skidding. If you have anti-lock brakes you should apply more steady pressure and avoid pumping them.Hydroplaning is a result of hitting water on the road and gliding across it. When your car begins to hydroplane you should remove your foot from the gas, hold the steering wheel steady, and very lightly apply the brakes. With a manual transmission you should push in the clutch and let the car slow down on its own.Don’t drive when tired or distractedDriving in wet road conditions, especially at night, requires your full attention. If you feel yourself getting drowsy while driving you should pull over until you feel alert again. Avoid anything that will take your attention from the road or your hands off the wheel. Especially things like eating, drinking, or talking on a cell phone.Prepare for wet weather by checking your tiresYou should check your tires with regularity for the proper amount of tread and tire pressure. Tread at less than 1/16th of an inch will be poor at handling wet road conditions. Use your owners manual to find out the proper tire pressure for your vehicle.