Flash Flood Safety (Combined) videos - English - October 2021

Summary

Stay safe during flash floods by following three key steps: stay informed with weather updates, prepare an emergency kit with essentials, and know evacuation routes. In case of a warning, act quickly, evacuate if necessary, and avoid floodwaters. After the flood, wait for authorities' clearance, check for damages, and be cautious of electricity and contaminated water.

Takeaways

• 🌧️ Stay informed: Keep up with weather reports on radio, TV, or online if you live in a flood-prone area.
• 📡 Watch for warning signs: Pay attention to heavy rain and evacuation routes.
• 🧰 Prepare an emergency kit: Include water, non-perishable food, a can opener, torch, batteries, and a first aid kit.
• 📄 Protect important documents: Keep copies in a sealed waterproof package.
• 🔌 Turn off utilities: Shut off electricity and gas before floodwaters rise.
• 🏠 Move essential items: Elevate valuable belongings to protect them from floodwaters.
• 🚨 Follow evacuation orders: Leave immediately if advised and avoid driving or walking in floodwaters.
• 🚗 Avoid driving in floods: Just 30 cm of water can carry away a car.
• ⚠️ Be cautious at night: It's harder to detect flood dangers after dark, so be extra prepared.
• 🏡 After the flood: Wait for authorities to declare the area safe before returning home, and check for structural damage and contamination risks.

Q & A

What are the three vital steps to stay safe during a flash flood?

The three vital steps are to stay informed, act quickly, and check for danger.

Why is it important to stay informed during a flash flood?

Staying informed allows you to monitor weather updates and warning signs, such as heavy rain, and prepare for potential evacuation.

What should be included in an emergency kit for a flash flood?

An emergency kit should include bottled water, non-perishable food, a can opener, a torch, batteries, a first aid kit, and copies of important documents in a waterproof package.

What are some preventive measures to take in your home before a flood occurs?

You should turn off the electrical power and gas supply, move essential items to higher places out of the flood's reach, and ensure that your family knows what to do in an emergency.

What actions should be taken as soon as a flash flood warning is issued?

You should stop what you're doing, think calmly about the next steps, follow evacuation orders, and seek higher ground while avoiding moving water.

Why is it especially important to be prepared for flash floods at night?

It’s harder to recognize flood dangers at night, so being prepared ensures quick and safe responses even in the dark.

Why is it dangerous to drive or walk in floodwater during a flash flood?

Even 30 centimeters of floodwater can carry a car away, and walking through it can be dangerous due to unseen currents and hazards.

What should you do after a flood before returning home?

Wait until authorities declare the area safe, and then carefully check for structural damage and ensure electricity is turned off due to the potential danger in wet conditions.

What precautions should be taken regarding water use after a flood?

Check the water supply for contamination before drinking or washing, as floodwaters can cause contamination.

Why is it important to share information about flash flood preparedness with loved ones?

Sharing the information ensures that everyone understands what to do before, during, and after a flash flood, increasing the chances of staying safe.