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Flooding is a natural disaster that can cause significant damage to property and even loss of life. Most parts of the country have been experiencing floods, making life difficult. Living in a flood-prone area can be challenging to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones, here are things to prioritize.
- Stay Informed: It is essential to stay informed about the weather conditions in your area. The National Weather Service issues flood warnings and watches that you should pay attention to. Local news and weather channels also provide regular updates on the weather in your area. Keep an eye on the news. If you hear a flood warning, take it seriously.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: In case of a flood, you may need to evacuate your home quickly. It is essential to have an emergency kit ready that includes items like water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights, and medications. Keep your emergency kit in a place that is easily accessible, and make sure everyone in your household knows where it is. To the kit, add a list of emergency contacts that you may require when the time comes including that provided by the authorities.
- Have an Evacuation Plan: If you live in a flood-prone area, it is crucial to have an evacuation plan. Identify the safest route out of your neighbourhood, and make sure everyone in your family knows how to get there. If you have pets, make sure you have a plan for them as well.
- Elevate Your Appliances: If you live in a flood-prone area, consider elevating your appliances like your washer, dryer, water heater, fridge and many more to avoid damages and electrocution.
- Move Valuables to Higher Ground: Move your valuables, like important documents, to higher ground or a safe place in your home. You can also store them in a waterproof container.
- Avoid Driving Through Floodwaters: Never drive through floodwaters, no matter how shallow they appear. Even six inches of water can cause your car to float, and two feet of water can sweep your car away. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and find an alternate route.
- Stay Away from Electrical Wires: If you see electrical wires that have fallen in a flooded area, stay away from them. Electrical wires can carry an electric current that can be deadly.
To sum it up, stay up to date, ensure that electricity is well considered, evacuation and supplies. Most importantly, have the flood emergency contact provided by the authorities with you.
Should you be affected by the floods, call the emergency and disaster response team at the toll-free number 0800721571.