What to do when flood waters threaten you

The Los Angeles Police Department has some advice for residents who live near debris basins or flood control channels. Even if a flood control channel appears dry, it is against the law to go across fences to get into one.

If you fall into the water:

* Remain calm.

* Conserve energy. Don’t scream or yell.

* Try to float on your back with your legs straight and your feet pointed downstream.

* Use your legs to keep yourself clear of any obstructions.

* Keep your head up so you can see where you are going.

* Watch out for debris, such as trees or other stationary objects blocking the channel and forcing water over it. Try to turn over on your stomach and approach the obstacle head-on, crawling over the top of it. Most victims in swift currents die when they get pinned against obstacles, or get trapped in submerged debris and vegetation.

If you see someone in the water:

* Call 911.

* Provide the operator with the last location where you saw the victim and a detailed description of him or her.

* Do not jump into the water to try to rescue the victim.

* Do not try to pull the victim out with your hands, a rope or similar device.

* Do not attach a rope or anything to yourself and toss it in the water. You will be pulled in by the force of the current.

* Throw a flotation device such as a boogie board, Styrofoam ice chest, basketball or other unattached object.

Source: LAPD