FLOOD SAFETY RULES (What To Do Before, During & After The Flood)

Source: PAGASA-DOST

BEFORE THE FLOOD:

• Find out how often your location is likely to be flooded.
• Know the flood warning system in your community and be sure your family knows it.
• Keep informed of daily weather condition.
• Designate an evacuation area for the family and livestock.
• Assign family members instructions and responsibilities according to an evacuation plan.
• Keep a stock of food which requires little cooking and refrigeration; electric power may be interrupted.
• Keep a transistorized radio and flashlight with spare batteries, emergency cooking equipment, candies, matches and first aid kit handy in case of emergency.
• Store supplies and other household effects above expected flood water level.
• Securely anchor weak dwellings and items.

WHEN WARNED OF FLOOD:

• Watch for rapidly rising flood waters.
• Listen to your radio for emergency instructions.
• If you find it necessary to evacuate, move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood waters.
• Store drinking water in containers, water service may be interrupted.
• Move household belongings to upper levels.
• Get livestock to higher ground.
• Turn off electricity at the main switch in the building before evacuating and also lock your house.

DURING THE FLOOD:

• Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.
• Do not attempt to cross rivers of flowing streams where water is above the knee.
• Beware of water-covered roads and bridges.
• Avoid unnecessary exposure to the elements.
• Do not go swimming or boating in swollen rivers.
• Eat only well-cooked food. Protect leftovers against contamination.
• Drink clean or preferably boiled water ONLY.

AFTER THE FLOOD:

• Re-enter the dwellings with caution using flashlights, not lanterns or torchers. Flammables may be inside.
• Be alert for fire hazards like broken wires.
• Do not eat food and drink water until they have been checked for flood water contamination.
• Report broken utility lines (electricity, water, gas and telephone) to appropriate agencies authorities.
• Do not turn on the main switch or use appliances and other equipment until they have been checked by a competent electrician.
• Consult health authorities for immunization requirements.
• Do not go in disaster areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
• Flood are aggravated by factors resulting from the carelessness and indifference of people usually before floods occur.

THINGS ONE CAN DO TO MITIGATE FLOODS:

Regulate cutting of trees.

Report illegal loggers and kaingeros.

Report illegal construction of fishponds and other establishments in waterways.

Do not throw garbage in esteros and rivers.

Help clean the neighborhood.

Support community activities intended to lessen the occurrence of floods.

Avoid throwing anything like plastic wrappers anywhere which may clog or block the drainage system.