The action mans guidebook to tackling a flood before it arrives
The action mans guidebook to tackling a flood before it arrives
Even non flooding areas encounter flooding as a result of high winds and severe storms. Areas that had previously remained unflooded can, in the extreme weather conditions we face today, receive the equivalent of a month’s rainfall in a single day. Such an eventuality like flooding requires that everyone be ready well in advance at anytime.
Owing to the uncertain occurrence of these acts of God, you must undertake a number of measures to prevent your house from being affected with flash floods.
Take measures to keep water out of your house.
If you stay in an area which is prone to flooding, make sure that you cover up your windows and doors using sandbags, plywood or metal sheets. You can also use silicone sealant to ensure that water will not enter your home. These measures will not last for days but they may hold back a short lasting flood and keep your possessions dry.
Shut off your utilities.
You should remember to turn off all your utilities, such as gas, electricity and even water, at the mains. Remember to remove the plugs of all electrical appliances and place them at a height above the expected flood level, possibly the second floor of your home. The water may enter into your home in spite of you being very careful, and although the water level normally increases some feet this may not be up to up to the second floor of your house so that it is dry and any items left there will be intact.
It is important to be mindful of furniture and appliances.
Valuable appliances and furniture should be kept in elevated areas or upstairs.
If a second floor is not available, as in case of a bungalow, raise items by arranging them on blocks or bricks. Removing carpets, curtains and internal doors is recommended.
To keep them from away from floodwater, store all of these in elevated places.
The second floor of the house can be used for putting down all the important papers and pictures. Put these items in containers that are impervious to water, such as those used for storing food. At the least, place them in sealed plastic bags to keep them dry.
Rakes and other objects that are outside your house also need proper attention. Items floating in floodwater can be dangerous for others. Use your garage, a locked building, as the most suitable place to store precious garden articles which are prone to damage. A heavy item like wheelbarrow can be very easily float if kept in the open but can be prevented from floating and damaged by floodwater if stored in the garage.
FThe following are the steps to be followed in case a flood warning is announced.
Correct information is vital in such circumstances.
Hence, keep a watch over the news for announcements or updates by listening to the radio or television. Ensure that you act in cooperation with the directions of the emergency services and local authorities. If you are ordered to evacuate, you should follow them immediately to avoid putting yourself and those around you in danger.
Since electricity will almost certainly be unavailable, you must ensure that you do all the things you need to do during the day. It will be tough and unsafe if you perform these things in the dark. Keep extra batteries for your torches ready, these will come in very handy.
Pass the threat information to all your neighbors and senior citizens especially, to enable them to arrange protection for themselves.
It is advisable to remain in your home. Violent flood waters can cause fatalities, hence it is imperative that you stay inside the house. Take notice of that fact that your car can float in two feet of water whereas six inches of rapidly flowing water is sufficient to make you fall.
Keep your pets and automobiles in secure areas. As soon as you come to know about the flood alerts, relocating to the second floor of your house is recommended. Avoid swimming as fdangerous loating objects may be present in the water. You can either be swept away or be knocked over by objects that are in the water.
Floodwater may be dirty and contaminated with sewage, so you should avoid contact if possible. It would be a pitty to survive the flood but get sick due to exposure to contaminated water. Riverbanks, sea defenses and river bridges are the most dangerous places during floods, so avoid going near them. There have been many cases wherein floodwater have destroyed or collapsed bridges and defenses.
