ARIZONA, USA — Rescuers search for an elderly couple’s abandoned car in flood waters near Payson Wednesday morning after it was discovered.
Tonto National Forest Officials said the couple left their Bear Flat home for Payson and never returned, prompting the family to contact the Gila County Sheriff’s Office to report the couple missing.
The Gila County Sheriff’s Office said it received the vehicle’s 911 at Tonto Creek in Bear Flat Crossing. Rescuers eventually positioned the vehicle in a creek about 100 yards before the intersection.
Sheriff officials said they were still searching for the vehicle’s owner, believed to be a couple who had been traveling with the family’s pet.
Officials said search efforts will continue but may be hampered by ongoing weather conditions.
Credit: Gila County Sheriff’s Office
Bear Flat is located in the Tonto Creek Valley 18 miles east of Payson.
This is a developing story.See 12News for the latest information.
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Flood Safety:
The Arizona Fire and Medical Department provides the following tips on hazards to be aware of during and after a flood, including fire, electrical, and chemical safety.
Generators and alternative heating devices can pose a fire hazard during floods if not used correctly or maintained properly. Puddles and appliances can become charged and cause electrical fires.
For electricity, residents of flooded areas should turn off their homes if they can reach the main breaker or fuse box. All wires in your home can be electrically charged and dangerous. Residents should have their homes checked for damage by a professional technician before powering on.
Make sure that flammable liquids, such as thinner, lighter fluid, and gasoline, are not spilled in or near your home. Keep flammable liquids away from electrical or alternative heat sources to avoid ignition.
All smoke alarms in your home should be tested monthly and the batteries replaced annually. Some smoke alarms are dependent on your home’s electrical service and may go off when the power is turned off.
Make sure fire hydrants near your home are cleared of debris so fire departments can easily assess them in the event of a fire.
