OKC Firefighters Advise Public To Avoid Storm Drains After Water Rescue

Oklahoma City Firefighters rescued an Oklahoma City woman stuck in a storm drain with rising water. The incident happened quickly as the rain fell Wednesday afternoon. 

Firefighters pulled her from the rushing water near Interstate 44 and Western Avenue.

Officials encouraged people to avoid storm drains. Firefighters said water can reach a person’s waist in minutes.  

The sights at that storm drain can be described as calm until it rains. Wednesday morning’s storms disturbed the peace. 

“All the water funnels into that area,” said Capt. John Chenoweth, with the OKC Fire Department. “Water can rise really quickly.” 

As the water rose, people heard a woman’s call for help and called 911 just after 12:30 p.m. 

OKC firefighters jumped into action.  

“Everyone there is swift water trained and dive trained,” Chenoweth said. 

A race against time, but rescue teams found the woman and put their training to the test. 

“The water was waist-deep on her,” Chenoweth said. “She did lose her footing.” 

Swift water rescue crews’ preparation helped guide the woman to safety. 

“We also get crews downstream,” Chenoweth said. “Pulled her to the edge of the storm drain and the rescuer and the crews were able to pull her up.” 

A successful outcome made it easier for Chenoweth to warn others.

“She was alert and conscious,” Chenoweth said. “Only two to three inches can move an individual and make them fall off their feet. We advise everyone to just stay out of this drainage system.” 

Chenoweth said the dangers of a storm drain are often more than meets the eye. 

“You just get a little bit of rain like we did today,” Chenoweth said. “You can be in danger that soon.” 

Firefighters credited the people who called authorities right away. They said their quick action helped save this woman’s life.

Firefighters encouraged parents to talk to their children about the dangers of storm drains.