Preventive Measures Against Floods
The occurrence of floods
is something that may come with and without warning, and there is
nothing you can do to stop it. However you are not that helpless.
There are preventive measures you can do to lessen or control the
damage and to protect your homes from the fury of the flood. This
should always be your pushing factor to purchase a flood insurance
cover for your house building and for the contents of your home.
In case of floods, here are the most basic steps
that you can do to minimize damage to your properties. You should
pay attention to three of the most critical aspects of your house,
and these are electricity, gas and water. First of all remember
to turn off all the main switches and controls of these three in
your house. For sure you know where these controls are ahead of
time. Do not wait for the flood to come before you look for the
controls.
Make sure you unplug all the electrical items
in your house and if possible haul them on higher places, like the
second storey of your house or the attic. If you live in a flood
zone, you should already be aware of ideal things to cover your
doors and windows like sandbags, metal sheeting and others. Make
your safety your priority but if you still have time, you can move
as much furniture and things to higher places.
You can also roll up carpets and rugs to avoid
them getting sodden and destroying their texture. As much as possible
keep everything dry above water. If your house is in a flood zone,
you must have a sealed emergency bag containing personal items and
valuables like important documents, personal records and other items
with sentimental value to you which no amount of insurance claim
could replace.
Before anything like a flood happens, you could
install your own flood defences as an advanced preparation. Check
your local stores for products that can be installed in advance,
like a 'flood board', air brick cover, or even plastic skirts to
surround your whole property.
When a flood occurs, think of your own safety
above all. In the event that you have to vacate your property, cooperate
with emergency services and try to do as much as you can while it
is still daylight. Remember floods have claimed so many lives. Do
not allow yourself to be included in the long list of flood victims.
It may help you to prepare in advance too. Check the flood warnings
in your region so you will know what actions to take. As a final
precaution, make a personal flood plan for you and your family.
Your flood plan should include a flood escape
route, what you need to carry in emergency cases, where you can
go and other concerns with focus on your safety. From time to time
tune in to your radio and television for flood warnings. You can
also phone Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for more information.
|
