Turn around. Don't drown.

The San Antonio Fire Department received 42 calls for high-water rescues over a three-day period in March. Spring is here, and it’s likely that more rain is on its way. The San Antonio Fire Department warns anyone to “Turn around… don’t drown!” Keep in mind the following tips when approaching water over a road.

• NEVER drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads.

• If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Water only two feet deep can float away most automobiles.

• Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet.

• Don’t allow children to play near high water, storm drains or ditches.

• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Don’t forget -- moving a low-water crossing barricade is now a Class B misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $1,000 and up to 180 days in jail. Also the San Antonio Fire Department charges a water rescue fee of $400 per adult for vehicle rescues.

 Return to dot-gov homepage