Watershed Protection Launches New Flood Safety Video Contest

The City of Austin Watershed Protection Department’s first annual Flood Safety Video Contest is now open for entries! All Austin area 6th through 12th grade students are invited to create their very own short public service announcement teaching drivers how to stay safe when water is covering the road and to “Turn Around - Don't Drown®.” Austin is in the heart of Flash Flood Alley and driving through flooded roads is the leading cause of deaths during a flash flood. It not only puts drivers’ lives at risk, but also the lives of passengers and emergency responders. Contest winners will receive a $100 gift card and other prizes. The top videos may be aired on local news stations. We will announce one individual, one foreign language and one team winner in each the following grade categories for a total of nine winners: ● 6-8th grades ● 9-10th grades ● 11-12th grades Videos must be 30 seconds or less and should encourage drivers to make safe decisions when floods occur and not drive on flooded roads. Videos must be submitted in horizontal format and may not contain offensive or copyrighted materials. Entries must be received by March 31, 2023. Watershed Protection's Communications and Engagement Office will announce the winners on April 7. For more details about the contest visit www. www.austintexas.gov/flood-safety-contest.