News feeds are full of the tragic flooding news from Texas over the past two weeks. And while Texas is some distance away, the risk of drowning from flooded rivers and creeks is very real in our area as well. Flooding rains and sudden downpours can overrun local creeks and streams, with water cascading over roadways and bridges.

That's why it's important that everyone pay close attention to national safety campaigns known as "Turn Around, Don't Drown." Led by the National Weather Service, the campaign highlights the danger of deaths from flooding, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reporting that over half of all flood-related drowning occur each year when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water.

Just in the last few days, emergencies occurred in Chester County from vehicles that entered roadways that were flooded requiring first responder rescues. Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road. The road may have collapsed under that water. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters.

It is also worth nothing that recently enacted laws in the Commonwealth of PA make it illegal to drive around Road Closed signs -- and beyond the safety risks, there are substantial penalties for doing so.

The WGFC encourages all to be familiar with the public safety messages about flood water risks -- see the links below. Pay attention to weather warnings about flash flooding, and never drive into floodwaters -- Remember, Turn Around, Don't Drown!