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How to prepare for
Flood
Floods usually occur in low lying areas when there are abnormal
rainfall hours and intensity filling river basins with too much
water, within a short time. Water runs off steeper ground very rapidly,
causing natural drainage systems to overflow with rushing flood
waters and a deadly cargo of rocks, mud, smashed trees and other
debris. Mudslides are also a danger created by flood conditions.
Some floods develop over a period of days, but flash floods can
result in raging waters in just a few minutes. Flooding along
rivers is a natural and inevitable part of life. This makes it a
natural event. At times man also causes flood by blocking the
drainages and when water can not find it path, it overflows the
land and thereby it is called flood. At times floods are caused
by collapse of dams. In Nigeria, Floods are the most common and
widespread of all natural hazards. Even the northern parts of
the country that have less rainfall are also prone to annual
flood. At times even very small streams, gullies, creeks,
culverts, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that may appear
harmless in dry weather can flood. Wherever you live, be aware
of potential flooding hazards. Flood alone is a hazard but when
it affects man and his property or activities we call it
disaster. Flood is a disaster because it results in: Loss of
lives, Loss of agricultural products, Loss of soil fertility for
agriculture, Demolition of buildings and rendering many
homeless, Destroying livestock and other valuable assets.
Cholera and other health related problems.
Before a Flood
To
prepare for a flood, you should:
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Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate
and reinforce your home.
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Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric
panel if susceptible to flooding.
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Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent
flood water from backing up into the drains of your
home.
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Construct barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to
stop floodwater from entering the building.
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Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds
to avoid seepage.
During a Flood
If a flood is likely in your area, you should:
Listen
to the radio or television for information.
Be
aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any
possibility of a flash flood,
move
immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for
instructions to move.
Be
aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other
areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in
these areas with or without such typical warnings as
rain clouds or heavy rain.
If you must
prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:
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.
If you have
to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:
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.
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.
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