Floods Are Going To Happen – Play Safe to Reduce Impact

What is needed to be done in order to minimise the risk of upcoming floods? A number of dams have been built; houses are constructed on stilts; and even the natural direction of flow of water being diverted. In spite of all these efforts, floods occur and only thing we can do is to manage its impact and take necessary precautions. So what should we do in order to stay safe when a flood occurs?

The government should also take the initiative in educating people staying in high prone areas to take necessary precautionary measures and must have access to all the required information regarding the flood watch and warning. You should be well aware of whether the area you are staying at is a floodplain or not. Start planning for taking all the precautions once you are aware of that. Even before flood occurs or actual warning is issued, you can prepare yourself so as to prevent the damage.

Search for the evacuation areas near your location. Prepare a flood kit for yourself and your family. This kit must include all the necessary items like all important documents including insurance papers of your home, few eatable handy items along with baby food and food for pets, torch and candles, flashlight, batteries, first-aid and other basic medicines. The personal belongings should be well placed in safety box. All the electrical equipment should be switched off and disconnected.

Staying safe when flood occurs is not so simple and needs accurate planning. A flash flood is said to occur when water rapidly covers the land. In case when it is raining much heavily or in several days and there is overflowing of river, there is a possibility of flood. When a flood watch is issued it means flood is very much possible in your location so you should be well alert. You may also need to put up a flood alarm in order to let you be aware if the water is starting to infiltrate your home. Immediately put all the valuable items including furniture, your personal belongings and the flood kit to a high level place. Carefully listen to radio or your television for all the information regarding the flood watch and the issue of flood warning.

Flood warning is issued when flood is actually occurring or approaching your area. Also listen for the safe areas away from water sources like near a river or lake. Immediately shift to higher place in your location. Never touch any electricity source when you are standing in water. Disconnect all the electrical equipment and do not ever come in contact with flood water. You should instruct others to do the same. Avoid driving in flood water as it is very difficult to judge the height up to which water is collected.

When flood has already occurred and you have to face the challenge you should immediately contact your insurance agent and discuss with him how to progress further. Ensure the safety before returning to your area.

Document all the damage and take photographs if possible. Wear waterproof outer garments as you do this. Pump out the water which that has been collected in your property so you can clean, disinfect and dry the products which came in contact with flood water.