Corps of Engineers and Coast Guard urges boaters to stay off flooded rivers

(U.S. Coast Guard photo)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Coast Guard are urging people to stay off of flooded rivers.

Due to large amounts of debris, fast currents, unmarked submerged objects and other dangerous conditions, the U.S. Coast Guard are requiring recreational boaters to refrain from boating on flooded areas of the Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois River.

Rivers are unpredictable and dangerous in a flood. Even if someone has lived along a river his whole life, he shouldn’t assume it will behave the same way during a flood. It’s not a good time to be recreating on or near the rivers.

The U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers join in urging all citizens to keep safety uppermost in their minds, especially during this high water event:

• Watch the situation around you especially if you live or work in flood-prone areas.
• Stay in touch through the media for latest updates and warnings.
• Have a “what if” plan if you live or work in a flood prone area.
• Do not wade or swim or take recreation boats into river waters.  They are especially treacherous now.
• Turn around ... don't drown!" Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads.

 For more information, visit http://bit.ly/floodfight2013