Rush to the nine

The lake at Ellsworth’s Prairie Ridge Golf Course (above) spills onto the gulf course after several days of rain. This is just part of the severe-weather damage experienced at Ellsworth and throughout the Black Hills as periodic hail and flooding conditions pounded the area throughout the week. The 28th Security Forces Squadron offers advice on staying safe during severe weather conditions at www.ellsworth.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123101599. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman Matthew Flynn)

Public service announcement -- traveling in rain

Published June 5, 2008
28th Security Forces Squadron

ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. -- There are several safety concerns one should have during periods of heavy rains, especially when rain is coming down too fast for it to drain from roads in a timely manner.

Water left on roads, even in small amounts, can cause vehicle accidents due to aquaplaning. Sudden movement of the vehicle, braking or fast turning of the steering wheel can cause a vehicle to move in an erratic manner. This can sometimes even cause a vehicle to roll.

The best way to combat aquaplaning is to slow down and increase following and braking distance between vehicles.

Flood areas are potentially hazardous on foot as well, especially for children. The current in a flash flood area may not be noticeable on the surface, but the undercurrent is very deadly. A person can be swept away by water less than a foot deep.

The best way to avoid these situations is to stay away from the creeks and lakes when there is a lot of rainfall. The water can rise quickly and with enough force to move a vehicle, leaving a person with less of a chance of escaping the dangerous water. Avoid high water, take extra precautions and take the long way around if you need to go through an area that has fast running or overflowing creek or stream water running through it.