Practicing flood safety during recent flooding in central Wisconsin

MERRILL, Wis. (WSAW) – Current flooding of the Wisconsin River is a reminder of flood security.

The Merrill Hearth Division stated it solely takes 6 inches of floodwater to brush an grownup off of their toes.

“12 inches can take a automobile down the river, and 24 inches can take a full-sized truck and take it off the highway,” stated Ross Witucki, firefighter and paramedic for the Merrill Hearth Division.

Some individuals dismiss floodwaters, particularly in locations they typically journey, nevertheless it’s the unknowns that individuals have to be fearful about.

“Properly, it’s beneath the floodwater that’s harmful. You don’t know what that floodwater did to the floor under that. There may very well be the water that utterly washes the highway out, there could be holes,” stated Witucki.

The Merrill Hearth Division says there will also be loads of particles and rubbish in floodwaters.

“Soil erosion can take out roads, can take out infrastructures beneath, pipes, sewers, sewers rack ups,” stated Witucki.

The risks of driving on flooded roads could be lethal.

“In the event you don’t comprehend it’s flooded, your vehicles can hydroplane, can lose management. If the highway is washed up you could be driving and be pondering fantastic and sink proper in and probably lose your automobile and probably your life,” stated Witucki.

The Merrill Hearth Division stated anybody discovering themselves in a flooded space ought to head for larger floor and name the hearth division instantly.

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