Staying Safe in Rising Waters
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Several counties in West Tennessee, such as Dyer County, are battling flood waters this week. And it’s coming during a time when emergency leaders want to help warn you about the dangers of rising waters. “Floods are the number one killer of all natural events,” said Dyer County Emergency Management Director, James Medling. “More than tornadoes, more than lightning. And the sad fact is that most of those deaths could be prevented.” Prevented by knowing the facts about floods, especially along the Obion and Forked Deer Rivers. “We can have as much as two week’s warning that this is coming, and it may last two to three weeks before the water’s gone, or even longer,” said Medling. And during that time, flooding near your home or property can pose a massive threat. Only six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet. “You need to monitor that situation very closely – don’t let it cut you off,” said Medling. In other words, don’t let water trap you in your home. And if you do have to evacuate, take extra caution on the roadways. “Roads can wash out, bridges can wash out. And it may not be readily identifiable to them,” said Medling. “They may think the road’s still there when it’s not.” But even if the road is there, it takes only two feet of water to float away a car. “Turn around, don’t drown, as
