Virtual Classroom Group Discussion
August 2, 2000 -- 12:00 Noon EDT

Driving Through Floodwaters
How Can We Prevent the Risk to Motorists and Responders?

Amy Sebring
EIIP Moderator

Contents:

Summary
On-line Transcript
Download Transcript (MS Word File)

Discussion Questions

Related Pages and Articles:
FEMA "Be Flood Alert" Logos
ARC Talking About Disaster: Guide "What To Do if You are Driving During a Flood"
NWS 7/10/00 "Minnesota Tragedy Reinforces Flood Safety Message"
NWS 5/26/00 "NASCAR's Darrell Waltrip and NWS Warn Against Driving Through Flooded Roads"
CDC "Morbidity and Mortality Associated With Hurricane Floyd"
Lifesaving Resources, Inc. "Low-Water Crossings: The Hidden Danger"
NASAR Course Description Basic Water Rescue Preparedness
County of Los Angeles Swift Water Rescue
(see especially PDF file Operational Standards and Guidelines)

SUMMARY

EIIP Classroom Online Presentation
Wednesday - August 2, 2000 - 12:00 Noon EDT

Driving Through Floodwaters
How Can We Prevent the Risk to Motorists and Responders?

Amy Sebring
EIIP Technical Projects Coordinator

The EIIP Virtual Classroom featured an open group discussion on "Driving Through Floodwaters: How Can We Prevent the Risk to Motorists and Responders?"

Interest in the topic was spurred by the Center for Disease Control Morbidity study of Hurricane Floyd, May 2000. The study states identification of "leading cause of death as drowning involving occupants of motor vehicles trapped in flood waters," with 36 total drowning deaths, 24 while in vehicles. Some of the study's statistics relate to deaths of rescue workers as well.

Eight discussion questions were developed to prompt replies from the audience. Participants responded based on personal expertise, experience or observations of their respective emergency management, response or broad community perspectives.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. What resources are available for public education on the hazards of driving through floodwaters?

  2. Why does the danger go unrecognized?

  3. Are conflicting messages being sent to the public? To emergency responders?

  4. What research, if any, is needed on this topic?

  5. What do emergency responders need to know?

  6. What kind of planning, if any, is needed in this area?

  7. What are some ideas for creative outreach in this area?

  8. What opportunities for partnerships may exist to deliver this message in your community?

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