There is often not much idea about how one should be prepared when a flood occurs. As monsoons have already hit many parts of the country, urban floods are likely to happen. In a bid to protect yourself from situation, National Disaster Management Authority has issued a guide on how to be prepared and ensure safety from urban floods.
Following are the do's and dont's given by the NDMA incase of urban floods:
How to be prepared before floods?
Ignore rumours; Stay calm; Don't panic.
Keep your mobile phones charged for emergency communication; use SMS.
Listen to radio, watch TV, read newspapers for weather updates.
Untie cattle/animals to ensure their safety.
Prepare an emergency kit with essential items for safety and survival.
Keep a first aid kit with extra medication for snake bite and diarrhoea ready.
Keep your documents and valuables in water-proof bags.
What to do during floods?
Don't drive through flooded areas.
Don't enter flood waters. In case you need to, wear suitable footwear.
Stay away from sewerage lines, gutters, drains, culverts, etc.
Stay away from electric poles and fallen power lines to avoid electrocution.
Eat freshly cooked or dry food. Keep your food covered
Drink boiled/chlorinated water.
Use disinfectants to keep your surroundings clean
What to do after floods?
Do not allow children to play in or near flood waters.
Don't use any damaged electrical goods; get them checked.
Watch out for broken electric poles and wires, sharp objects and debris.
Do not eat food that has been in flood waters.
Use mosquito nets to prevent malaria.
Don't use toilet or tap water if water lines/sewage are damaged.
What to do if you need to evacuate?
Place furniture, appliances on beds and tables.
Put sandbags in the toilet bowl and cover all drain holes to prevent sewage back flow.
Turn off power and gas connection.
Take the emergency kit, first aid box and valuables with you.
Do not enter deep, unknown waters; use stick to check water depth.
Come back home only when officials ask you to do so.
Wear face mask/cover, keep a sanitiser, maintain social distance during evacuation & insafe sheltere.
