HOW TO SURVIVE A DISASTER - FLOODS

Flooding in Brimstage lane, Wirral from merseypics, CC attribution 3.0, https://vimeo.com/50203644

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The change in climate pattern due to global warming is a leading cause for extreme weather all over the world. Such weather can turn into a major disaster in a very short time.

One of the most common hazards and disasters are floods. Not all floods are alike. Some floods develop slowly over time while some such as flash floods can develop in just a few minutes. Sometimes, there may not even be a single sign of rain and the flood me caused by rain in other areas or a breach in a canal.

Flooding and Flash Floods are a very real danger. Every year, people are injured. Some people lose their lives because they are taken off guard by storms or rushing floodwaters.

Here's What you need to know to survive in a flood!

PREPARE FOR SURVIVAL BEFORE A FLOOD

• Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.
• Listen to the radio or television for information.
• If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move to higher ground right away. Do not wait for instructions to move.
• Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box, that is located up high and out of harm's way.
• Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit. The kit should contain:
• First aid kit and essential medications.
• Canned food and can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person
• Protective clothing, rainwear, and bedding or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
• Identification, such as a passport, driver's license, etc.
• Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members, such as diapers, toys, etc.
• Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on.

EVACUATION

• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.

• Driving in Floods

• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.
• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
• A foot of water will float many vehicles.
• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-up trucks.

Irene Aftermath (Delaware)from Lou Angeli , CC attribution 3.0,  https://vimeo.com/28274907

AFTER A FLOOD

• Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink. Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
• Avoid moving water. Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company.
• Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization.
• Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters. There may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.
• Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.
• Look out for animals, especially snakes. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn things over and scare away small animals.

PROTECTION FOR THE FUTURE

There are some tips you can learn before the next storm. These tips will help to keep you and your family safe from flash floods:

• Do not build in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
• Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from drain back-ups.
• Construct barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering the building.
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
• Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated.

We cannot prevent all disasters but we can minimize the losses caused by them if we are well prepared. After all, FOREWARNED IS FOREARMED!