You don't know the power of water until you have been caught in a flash flood. The Las Vegas Springs Preserve, but nothing beats the real thing. Weekend America host Desiree Cooper sits down with Bill Castle of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department to talk about Las Vegas and flash floods. For ten years Castle was part of the search and rescue team for the city. He's plucked his fair share of victims from the raging waters of flash floods and talks to us about the power of water.

Flash Flood Tips From the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

Perhaps the biggest cause of flood-related deaths and injuries is lack of public understanding of the severity and danger involved in floods and flash floods. During a flash flood, water can rise so quickly that there is little or no time for a warning to be issued and you may have only seconds to escape. Many people are killed while trying to drive or walk on roads and bridges that are covered by water. Even though the water might look only inches deep, it could be much deeper and with very strong currents. It only takes two feet of water to carry away cars. Six inches of swiftly moving water will sweep a person off his/her feet.

• If you suspect a flash flood is about to happen, immediately climb to higher ground.
• If on foot, do not attempt to walk through flood waters. Turn around and go directly to higher ground.
• Never let children or pets play near flood waters, storm drains, washes and sewers.
• If you are in a car, drive away from flooded areas - never try to drive through them. Even though vehicles in front of you have passed through the high water, you may not be so lucky.
• If your car stalls, immediately abandon it and climb to higher ground.
• Flooded areas are not safe for recreational boating. Many canoeists and kayakers have had to be rescued from dangerous rapids in flood-swollen waters.
• If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Follow recommended evacuation routes. Shortcuts may be blocked.