Danger lurking in those gullies

Dennie Quill, Contributor

SOME PEOPLE never learn. Too often we hear of tragedy in flooded Corporate Area gullies because motorists decided to take a chance. Monday, a five-year-old and three family members escaped death in a flooded gully. And this comes sharply on the heels of another rescue less than a month ago.

At times like these, when strangers reach out to save strangers, it is good to be reminded of the compassion of humans towards others, even in the midst of harsh economic times and a culture of criminality. This is about the only positive that one can take away from these incidents.

Experience teaches wisdom and everyone knows that many parts of the island are vulnerable to flooding. A flash flood can occur at any time. As the name suggests, it can develop in a flash, even if there is no sign of rain in the immediate area. Water can come gushing from the source with tremendous force, moving everything in its path. The experts warn that one can lose control of a vehicle in a mere six inches of water and cite examples of vehicles which have been swept away in six inches of water. And they estimate that most vehicles will be carried away in two feet of water.

It does not take a magician to assess the risk of flooding when there are huge rain clouds over parts of the city. The prevailing atmospheric conditions are an accurate indication of what to expect. In any event, motorists should always exercise caution when approaching these gullies and fords because, even though they usually appear harmless during dry weather, they can suddenly flood. There is hidden danger in these gullies and, even though passage through these areas may shorten one's journey, one should recognise that even a slight increase in water can become a hazard.

These raging waters are potentially harmful because they may contain sharp, bulky objects, chemical or industrial waste and, worst of all, sewage. Not long ago, a survivor interviewed by this newspaper described in graphic terms the mountain of garbage and muck which assailed him when he was caught in one of these flooded gullies.

Quite apart from the potential loss of life, there could be significant damage to the vehicle's electrical and transmission systems. An egg-cup full of water in a vehicle's air intake can wreak havoc on the engine. Meanwhile, the effects of mud must also be factored in when dealing with flood damage.

Taking all of the above into consideration, motorists must remain vigilant at all times. However, if motorists continue to take these risks and endanger the lives of others, perhaps the police should embark on a campaign to charge them with reckless driving. Prosecution may be the only way to stop these senseless attempts to use dangerous gullies, and put people's lives at danger.

denniequill@hotmail.com