With the heavy rainfall the state is receiving, there is the possibility of high water and flash flooding on rural highways in some areas. Flash flooding can occur even after just a few minutes of heavy rainfall. The Indiana State Police offers the following flood safety tips:

• Always carry a cell phone and charger.
• Pay attention to local media reports and heed warnings issued by the National Weather Service.
• Never drive around barricades at high water crossings.
• Be especially careful at night and early morning as it can be difficult to see water and it’s depth across the roadway.
• Reduce your speed in rain and NEVER enter flowing water. Driving through water creates less tire contact with the road surface (hydroplaning) and increases your chance of crashing.
• Driving through water affects your brakes reducing their effectiveness until they dry out.
• If you end up in water, immediately abandon your vehicle, exit through a window and climb on top of your car. Call 9-1-1 from there and wait for help to arrive. Ride the top like a boat, as vehicles will often float for several minutes.
• Be aware that road erosion can occur anytime there is running or standing water on a roadway.
• Remember it only takes six inches of water to reach the bottom of most car doors and one foot of water to float most vehicles.

If you find yourself stranded in water, act fast. Get yourself and everyone in your vehicle out of their seatbelt and out a window onto the roof of the car. Remember, call 911 after you reach the top of your vehicle. Indiana State Police divers advise to only swim for it if you absolutely have to, and don’t swim against the current. Make sure you’re a survivor, not a victim.

For additional information including a video on escaping a car crash in water, please visit the Indiana State Police web site link at http://www.in.gov/isp/2782.htm.