A couple living and working in an RV park in Gila County, Arizona, narrowly escaped a life-threatening flood. It’s a chilling reminder—natural disasters can strike anyone, anytime, especially if you’re living the RV lifestyle.
Let’s dig into what happened during the Gila County flooding, share some tips for RVers on staying safe during wild weather, and talk about prepping your RV for emergencies.
The Gila County Flooding Incident
Recently, a couple staying at an RV park in Gila County, Arizona, ended up in a terrifying situation when sudden flooding threatened their lives. They worked at the park, too, and described how they watched the water rise quickly around their RV.
The floodwaters came in fast and strong. The couple feared for their lives, but they managed to get away in time.
Understanding the Risks
Flooding is one of the most common disasters RVers face. It often comes with little warning and can cause a lot of damage, both to property and people.
In Gila County, heavy rain made the water rise fast, catching a lot of residents off guard. If you live in an RV, knowing these risks is just part of the deal.
Preparing Your RV for Emergencies
Preparation really matters when it comes to staying safe. Here are some tips to help you get your RV ready for whatever might come your way:
- Stay Informed: Check weather forecasts and alerts for your area often. Sign up for emergency notifications from local authorities so you’re not caught off guard.
- Have an Emergency Plan: Make a plan that covers evacuation routes, meeting spots, and emergency contacts. Make sure everyone in your RV knows the plan.
- Stock Emergency Supplies: Keep a solid emergency kit in your RV. You’ll want non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.
- Secure Your RV: If there’s a flood risk, move your RV to higher ground if you can. Tie down or bring in anything loose so it doesn’t get swept away.
- Know Your Surroundings: Get familiar with the local terrain and any hazards. Try to avoid parking in low spots that could flood easily.
Emergency Communication
Staying in touch during an emergency is crucial. Make sure you have a few ways to contact family or emergency services.
Keep your cell phone charged, have a portable charger handy, and don’t forget a battery-powered radio. Sometimes, those old-school tools are lifesavers.
Staying Safe During a Flood
If you’re ever caught in a flood, here’s what you should do:
- Evacuate Immediately: If you get a flood warning or see water rising, don’t wait. Leave the area as soon as possible.
- Avoid Driving Through Floodwaters: Don’t try to drive through flooded roads. Even shallow water can sweep a vehicle away. Turn around and find another way.
- Seek Higher Ground: Get to higher ground fast. If you can’t move your RV, leave it and head out on foot.
- Stay Informed: Keep listening for updates and follow instructions from local officials. Your battery-powered radio comes in handy here.
After the Flood
Once the water goes down, you’ll need to check things over and stay safe:
- Inspect Your RV: Look for damage from the flood. Check for water damage, mold, or any structural problems.
- Clean and Disinfect: Give your RV a thorough cleaning to stop mold and mildew from taking over. Focus on any spots that got wet.
- Report Damage: Call your insurance provider to report what happened and start a claim. Take photos and notes to document everything.
Conclusion
The recent flooding in Gila County really hits home for RVers. It’s a jarring reminder that nature doesn’t care about your plans.
If you stay informed and have a solid emergency plan, you’ll be a lot better off. Knowing how to react in a crisis could make all the difference for you and your loved ones.
Want the full story on what happened? Check it out here.
Stay safe out there—and hey, happy travels, wherever you end up.
