We did a swiftwater rescue orientation class yesterday. I suppose it is a good thing to have, because we get called on to respond to some of these types of calls, even though our squad is not a Search and Rescue Squad. We didn't actually get into swiftwater, but we did get into the pool and used the equipment and such.
Here are a few tidbits:
- Don't drive into a flooded wash or roadway. We get those regularly here in Pima County and now they charge you with a crime if you drive around barricades and you could get stuck and/or drown if you drive onto a flooded area.
- If you do get stuck, stay with your car. One of the last people to get swept away was walking in swiftwater that was about to his knees when something took his feet from under him. Your car will usually stay where it is, which is not what will happen to you.
- If you get swept away, go feet first, keep them up so they don't get snagged and keep your knees bent. It is easier said than done.
- Don't get caught in a snag...tree limbs, fences, etc. what they call a strainer. It will probably drown you.
- The water usually recedes around here after an hour or so, so wait it out if you can. Even if you are stuck.
- The equipment the rescue guys have is really not all that extensive. You are much better off not getting stuck.
Those are just a few, but they are worth remembering during the monsoon season.
No comments:
Post a Comment