In light of recent flooding concerns, we feel it prudent to remind people about the dangers of floodwaters. Don’t go into them.

Standing water on a street or field after a flood isn’t the same as the water at the Austin Municipal Pool. Floodwater can contain runoff chemicals sprayed in farm fields or city lawns, as well as all manner of bacteria that could prove poisonous. According to the Center for Disease Control, flood waters can cause serious infections in open wounds or rashes. It’s also a potential electrical concern in case power lines are moved or displaced after a large storm.

Knowing all of this, we are still shocked to hear about people who drive or wade through flooded areas. We were further discouraged to learn Austin Police were called out to the 700 block of Oakland Avenue East last Sunday after someone reported children swimming in standing waters after this weekend’s storms.

Flooded areas are an avoidable danger, and we would encourage residents to use common sense when dealing with floodwater. Don’t drive through flooded areas. Don’t try to cross flooded areas on foot. And please don’t swim in standing water.