Flood Safety Tips

Cebuanos recently were stranded in different areas in the Metro. Some waited for three hours for the flood to subside before going home. With the apparent problem of our city’s drainage system, it’s best to be wary of these safety precautions in the event of a worst case scenario. 

Before Flood Strikes

Avoid building in a floodplain. Construct barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering your house and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.     It is also best to be always updated- -if a flood is likely to occur in your area, refer to your T.V. or radio for information.

When Flood is Imminent

Be prepared! Pack a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Don’t forget to include needed medications. If advised to evacuate your home, do so immediately. Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to a higher or elevated ground.

During a Flood

Do not walk through moving water. As little as 6 inches (15 centimeters) of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.

Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to a higher ground if you can do so safely.

Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in the water.

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. 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. Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters. Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards; mud left from floodwater can contain sewage waste and chemicals.

Source: U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency