With potential rainstorms forecast for the Las Cruces area beginning Tuesday evening, the Las Cruces Police Department recommends following these and other safety tips:
- Motorists should slow down. Allow for more travel time when driving in wet weather.
- When coming to a stop, motorists should begin slowing down sooner and apply gentle brake pressure. Avoid slamming on brakes.
- Drivers should allow for greater distance between vehicles. Normal driving conditions recommend travelling at least two seconds behind vehicles. During wet weather it is recommended to increase that distance.
- Give larger vehicles, like trucks and buses, more room for stops and turns.
- Avoid making sudden turns or lane changes.
- Drive around puddles as sitting water may be deeper than what it appears.
- Never attempt to drive through flooded arroyos or running water. Even when driving a large vehicle, like a truck or SUV, fast-moving water can easily overcome it.
- Drive with headlights on for safety and stay alert to surrounding traffic and changing weather conditions.
- If rain is too heavy or streets are flooded, pull over to a safe distance from the roadway – in a parking lot or away from traffic – until conditions improve.
- Get indoors when lightning is seen or when thunder is heard.
- Lightning tends to strike taller objects, so avoid open areas and especially keep from being at or near tallest object in an open area.
- Stay away from tall trees, utility poles, towers and any body of water.
- If you’re in a group of people and unable to take shelter, have the group spread out. Doing so will prevent multiple casualties during a lightning strike and will increase the chance that someone can help if an injury occurs.
- Keep away from electrical equipment, corded telephones and plumbing during a storm. Don’t swim, shower, bathe or wash dishes during a lightning storm.
- Stay clear of and avoid driving over any downed power lines.