By Cruz Lena
Floods can often be an unpredictable and deadly force. They are responsible for some of thelargest disasters recorded in history. We often see flooding in the news that rips properties from their foundation and most unfortunately, claim many lives. Sadly, there are many people in high risk zones that don’t prepare for such an eventuality. They can suffer a lot of destruction and financial damagebecause of flooding. Flood preparation is essential for all, and this is particularly true for homes at a higher risk of flooding.
How can flooding affect your health?
The health impacts of floods depend on the severity of thefloods. Not only are there the immediate dangers of drowning andcollisions from debris, they can also lead to massive water stagnation, which encourages the breeding of mosquitoes that can cause malaria.
Flooding also contaminates water bodies, leading to an influx of waterborne diseases like cholera and diarrhea. What’s more? Flooding can also negatively impact the health care infrastructure, and this can affect the supply of essential drugs.
How can you best prepare for floods?
Floods happen anywhere.Understand the flood risk in your locality and have emergency numbers on display. They will come in handy when in need of help in case of floods. Although you can’t stop floods, there are various things you can do to avoid losses in floods.Below are some of them;
- Respond/ Have the right tools
You and your loved ones should know what to do during aflood. Come up with a plan, and share it with your family members, including kids. For instance, know where to go, what to do all the relocation routes and centers.
Also, acquire a dewateringpump for your home. You’ll find one by visiting water pump manufacturers like Pumpbiz, Wilo, and many others. The reason? The floods will leave a lot of stagnant water in your home andthese pumps can help remove it.
- Buy flood insurance
Some homeowners insurance othertypes don’t cover flooding. As such, you have to purchase this separately. Get the best coverage, which ensures that you get compensated for all your belongings if you incur losses resulting from floods.
- Stock disaster supplies
Keep adequate supplies in a backpack in case anything happens. Keep things like food, water, blankets, a first aid kit, radio, flashlights, and any other thing that you deem useful. These can come in handy when everything else gets submerged in water.
- Understand how to turn off electrical appliances
Although this sounds simple, some people don’t know how todo it! Know how to turn off all the electrical appliances in your house and the gas lines. Do this before a flood, and your family members should also know how to do it. Moreover, raise any outdoor electricals to a point where floodwaters won’t reach them.
Final thoughts
Floods can affect anyone, and it’s good to stay safe.Avoid moving waters, whether walking or driving. Also, educate your family on the dangers of flooding waters. In case you need any help, notify the local emergency services and state the location of your home. All in all, prepare in advance and this saves a lot of trouble.
