Tips to Follow When Driving in a Monsoon
Reading the news today and seeing this picture of a car stuck in flashflood rains, in the Arizona Daily Star, made us decide to remind everyone about safety while driving in storms. These tips were taken from the AZ Emergency Information Network.
Rain Storms
• Rain reduces traction and causes tires to hydroplane. Slow your speed accordingly.
• Water on roads may be deeper than it looks. Watch for vehicles traveling too fast; they can throw blinding sheets of water.
• Don't cross rain-swollen washes. You could be caught in a flash flood that can sweep your vehicle and its contents away.
• Control of a vehicle is lost in 6 inches of water. Most vehicles begin to float in 2 feet of water.
Pay attention to hazard signs and roadblocks. Ignoring them threatens life and property and can result in police action. Arizona has a “Stupid Motorist Law” that provides for recovery of the costs associated with rescuing a driver who avoids a roadblock and gets stuck in a flooded street.
If You’re Stuck in a Wash
• Call 9-1-1.
• Climb onto the roof of your vehicle and wait to be rescued.
• If water is still low, wade to safety, but beware of floating debris.
Drive safely!
Rob
