How to prepare for a flood
As a family, have a conversation about flooding and the factors that contribute to it. It's important to rehearse a safety plan. Identify a safe evacuation route to use during a flood and practice the evacuation process with your family. Establish a designated meeting place in case you get separated. Prepare an emergency kit that includes non-perishable food, medications, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, batteries, and enough water for several days , as you may need to evacuate your area or face service interruptions. Contact your children's school to learn about their flood response plan.
Be aware of the dangers
Determine the type of flooding that can occur in your area and identify the local emergency contact numbers available for assistance during a flood. Stay up-to-date with weather forecasts to learn about potential flood events and understand how the local alert system works (such as who issues alerts, the communication methods used, and the advance warning provided). Additionally, it is crucial to know the level of risk associated with your residence.
Teach your children to swim
The main cause of death during floods is drowning.
Make sure you keep important documents in a safe place
To minimize the risk of damage during a flood, store essential documents, such as identification, in a safe place, such as on a high shelf or inside a protective item, such as a resealable plastic bag.
Pay attention to local officials
For weather updates and official guidance, listen to your local radio station or watch your news channel. If authorities recommend evacuation, leave immediately with your emergency kit and identification. Avoid crossing barricades set up by first responders, as they are intended to ensure safe passage through hazardous areas.
Protect your house
If time permits and it can be done safely, unplug appliances and turn off all utilities, including electricity, gas and water, before evacuating.
Head for higher ground
To escape rising waters, whether standing or flowing, seek higher ground. Water can rise rapidly during a flood, so never attempt to walk, swim, or drive through it. If you are in a vehicle that is beginning to fill with water, get onto the roof. If you cannot leave a building, go to the highest level, but only access the roof if absolutely necessary. Taking refuge in a confined area at the top of a house, such as an attic or loft, is not recommended, as the rising water level could hinder your ability to escape.
Make sure your children stay away from both moving and standing water during a flood. Even minimal water in a basement can create health risks for children . It's important to warn young drivers not to drive during a flood. For more information on how to respond to natural disasters, see how to act in case of a severe downpour.
Once you reach a safe location and have access to communication methods, notify your family or loved ones.
What steps to take after a flood
Stay up to date with the latest updates
Stay informed with the latest updates from local officials and only return home when it is deemed safe. To better understand the effects of these events, you can also consult the most devastating natural disasters in history.
Protect your family's well-being
Floods can cause water to become contaminated, posing various health risks to you and your family. These risks include waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever. It's advisable to keep your children away from floodwaters, as they are likely to be dirty and full of germs . If your children come into contact with floodwaters, be sure to bathe them promptly and encourage them to wash their hands frequently. If you or any member of your family become ill, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Protect food and water
To protect yourself from contamination, make sure food and water are covered and boil water from untreated sources for at least three minutes before using it. Use boiled water for cooking, as well as for cleaning food, pots, pans, spoons, or any utensils used in food preparation. Avoid drinking contaminated water or eating food that has been exposed to moisture.
Be careful when cleaning
When removing water from your home, proceed carefully and take your time. Be alert for potential hazards such as debris and electrical wires. If possible, try to dry as much as you can within 24 to 48 hours , ensuring wet areas are well-ventilated, and discard any items that cannot be dried or repaired.
Minimize your children's involvement in the clean-up process as much as possible. To ensure a safe environment for children and young people when they return home, it is essential to clean and disinfect toys, clothing, and living spaces. Items that have been significantly contaminated by flood water should be thrown away.
Start an open dialogue to reassure children after the flood
Make an effort to create opportunities for your children to express their feelings about the flood and encourage them to share any worries, fears, or anxieties they may be experiencing . Show them that you are listening attentively and that you genuinely care about their emotions.
