Flood Safety

Stay Away

Do not drive or walk into water that is flowing across low water crossings, bridges, or roadways. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Heed all warnings and street barricades - if you go around once, you are subject to a fine. For more information on road closures, call the Shawnee County Public Works Department at 785.251.6101.

These areas are especially dangerous because:

• As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet or move your car.
• More people drown in their cars than anywhere else.
• The road may be washed out below the water surface.
• Your car may stall or get stuck in the water, and then get pushed off the road. Once off the road, cars often start to roll, making escape impossible.
• Do not go near downed power lines and electrical wires. Electrocution is another major source of deaths in floods.

Move to a Safer Area

Evacuate your house if instructed to do so. Follow emergency instructions. It is much safer and easier to evacuate before flood waters become too deep.

If the waters start to rise inside your house before you have evacuated, retreat to the second floor, attic or roof. Take dry clothing, a flashlight, and a portable radio.