If bad weather makes you nervous, know that you are not alone. While floods occur more often in some areas than others, it never hurts to be ready for an emergency. This article is intended to help you prepare your home and family in case a flood occurs in your area.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Develop a Plan
Step 1. Know the risks
If you have recently lived in a new geographic area, you can ask the relevant Technical Department if the house is at risk of flooding. You can also do online searches on the Region's website to identify areas at risk; remember to check the web page from time to time, as danger zone maps are often redrawn as conditions change.
- The main factor that determines the risk is whether or not the house was built on a floodplain, which you can check on the flood map.
- There are several other factors that can put you at risk of flooding. For example, if the ground floor floor is at a lower level than the base flood limit, you are more likely to be affected, just as you are in danger if you live near a body of water, such as a lake or river.; the risk is even higher if you live near the sea.
Step 2. Find an evacuation route
This means finding the best way to enter the neighborhood, leave it and cross other areas of the city in case of a flood. You have to stay on higher ground if you need to escape; also plan a meeting place for all family members, if you are in different places; make sure you have a plan in writing, possibly work it out together, so you all know what to do.
- The best way to find an escape route is to use a flood map, which shows the dangerous areas close to the neighborhood.
- When planning your route, be sure to define a place to go. For example, you can plan your escape route with a friend in advance, so you can take refuge in their home, or you can choose to go to your workplace if it is outside the "red zone". In many situations, specifically designated areas are defined in which to go in an emergency.
Step 3. Teach your children how to react to an emergency
This means showing them the emergency numbers you have hung in different places around your home. Teach them how to make the phone call and remember that they don't just have to say they are in danger. Tell them the name of the contact person in the neighborhood they can turn to in case of difficulty.
Step 4. Define a contact outside the risk area
Identify a person who is not in the immediate vicinity and designate him as the contact person that family members must call; in this way, there is at least one individual who has all the information and who is not directly in danger.
Step 5. Don't forget the pets
When thinking about the evacuation method, remember to include your four-legged friends as well. Make sure you have enough kennels for everyone so they can escape with you if necessary. Carriers are used to contain animals, so you can move them without the risk of them being injured.
- Also remember their personal items. Don't forget the food and water bowl, as well as their usual medications, should you have to evacuate. Keep in mind that not all emergency shelters accept animals; Also be careful to bring something that reminds them of home, such as a toy or blanket.
- If you have to stay indoors, take the animals with you to the highest point.
Step 6. Take out an insurance policy to protect yourself
If possible, take out flood insurance so that you will be reimbursed for damage in the event of a disaster. If you live in a low-risk area, the policy shouldn't be too expensive; otherwise, if the risk is very high, it may require an economic effort, but it will still be worth it when the flood destroys the house. In fact, it's a mandatory requirement if you live in a high-risk area and have taken out a home loan.
There are various insurance companies you can contact; ask for different quotes to find the best solution for your situation
Part 2 of 4: Prepare an Emergency Evacuation Kit
Step 1. Have a three day supply of food and water
As for water, calculate 4 liters per day for each person. For food, prepare non-perishable foods, such as canned foods that don't need to be cooked; store all products in a watertight container.
- Do not forget to insert a can opener, in addition to the other utensils and cutlery for eating.
- Also remember that your pets must feed and drink too; therefore take this aspect into consideration as well.
Step 2. Include the appropriate tools and items
You need a multipurpose tool that includes items such as a screwdriver and knife. Also get an extra mobile phone charger and a spare key set.
Step 3. Add personal hygiene supplies to the kit
Put the main first aid items, plus a supply of soap, toothpaste, shampoo, and other items for body care and cleansing. It's a good idea to have antibacterial hand wipes available as well.
Step 4. Put on gear to protect yourself from the elements
For example, consider sunscreen, insect repellent spray, emergency blankets, and rubber boots.
Step 5. Have what you need to stay informed
This means preparing a radio to listen to the weather conditions, as well as some spare batteries. You also need to keep friends and family up to date, so remember to bring emergency phone numbers with you as well.
Part 3 of 4: Prepare the House and Documents in Advance
Step 1. Avoid building in flood-prone areas
As already mentioned above, you can inquire at the Technical Office in your area about the frequency of floods in a potentially building area. However, if you have no alternatives and you are in an area at risk, make sure to build the house in an elevated position and reinforce the construction to protect it from possible flooding.
Step 2. Lift major appliances and power sockets
The oven, air conditioner, electrical box and water heater should be raised above the ground, so as not to be submerged in the event of a flood. You should also arrange electrical outlets and wiring at least 30cm above the level of any possible flooding. Assign a competent professional to carry out these works.
Step 3. Make copies of important documents
Make sure you have a photocopy of all insurance policies, take photos of your property, home, and any other important documents, and keep them in a safe place. You must store everything in waterproof containers at home or in a safety deposit box at an institution that offers this service.
Step 4. Install a water pickup pump
It is used to extract the water that has settled, usually in cellars. If your home is prone to flooding, install one of these devices and make sure you have a spare battery in case the electricity fails.
Step 5. Install a check valve in drains, toilets, and sinks
It is a type of valve that prevents flood water from rising up the drains.
Step 6. Create water barriers
Assign a professional to examine the house and install blocks around the building to prevent water from entering the house.
Step 7. Build waterproof walls in the basement
If you have a basement, make sure the walls are insulated with a waterproof sealant that blocks the water outside.
Part 4 of 4: Preparing the House when the Flood Comes
Step 1. Have the radio close at hand
Tune into the weather forecast channel to hear flood updates and stay informed.
Step 2. Turn off the electricity
If there is standing water, turn off the electrical system in your home by turning off the main switch. You must also close it if you plan to leave the house during the flood or if you see any power lines on the ground.
Step 3. Shut off the gas system if you are evacuating
The general meter should be outside the house, near the street or next to the wall, depending on the type of building you live in; locate it before you find yourself in an emergency. Usually, it is necessary to turn the knob a quarter of a turn, until it becomes perpendicular to the pipe that sends the gas. You may need to use an adjustable wrench for this.
Step 4. Also close the plumbing if you are leaving the house
The valve should be near the meter, unless you live in a cold region, in which case it should be inside the house. Usually, you have to turn a small valve to the right several times until it closes completely.
Step 5. Fill sinks and bathtubs with water if you decide to stay indoors
Wash the bathroom fixtures with a bleach solution, rinse them thoroughly, and refill them for potable water. You should also fill every pitcher or container in your house with water.
Step 6. Secure the items you have outside
If you have patio furniture or a barbecue, bring them indoors or legalize them for safety.
Step 7. Bring the most valuable items upstairs
If you are warned of the calamity in time, place important items, such as electronics or valuable furniture, on the first floor of your home or in the attic.
