11 Useful Tips to Neutralize The Effects of Flooding

The recent flood caused by heavy rains on September 26, 2009 in the Pasig and Marikina areas of Metro Manila among other places caused so much damage that affected a multitude of citizens. Many clambered to their roofs for safety, some not successful enough were carried by the strong surges.

Floods always cause a lot of inconveniences to people, even threaten their life. How can one cope with this phenomenon if you happen to encounter it. Here are some flood safety tips.

Take preventive measures if possible.

If you are going to have your house constructed yet, select those areas that are not prone to flooding. Areas prone to flooding are near rivers and streams. Some parts of Metro Manila, for instance, was once a marshland so the elevation is low. Heavy rains will bring those places back to their origin (i.e. swampland). Avoid reclaimed areas.

Secure an insurance policy.

If you already have a house in flood-prone areas, find a homeowner’s insurance policy that covers losses from flooding. Make sure that your policy is placed in a waterproof container.

Stockpile food, medicine and emergy aid kit.

Canned and food in pouches can help you survive a flood. Having a stock of medicine for hypertension will prevent stroke and heart attacks in stressful situations.

Have a radio and flashlight.

Always have a weather radio on hand when rains are heavy and stay tuned to radio stations for any warning on the likelihood of flooding in your place. Flashlights can aid you during rescue as well as finding your way to a safe place.

Have plastic bags ready.

Thick, transparent plastic bags can help ensure that your important personal belongings are dry when floods come. Cellphones, cameras, and other small but costly electronic devices can be saved by tying the end of a plastic bag securely. I usually do this when I’m working in the field exposed to rain or seawater spray on a boat.

Always fill your fuel tank.

During rainy days or known flooding months, it always pays to have your vehicle well-fueled for possible evacuation upon warning of a strong storm coming your way. Evacuate quickly when advised. Previous knowledge of the way to the highest elevation will prove handy. Watch out for falling branches or objects while along your way to safety.

Avoid driving in flood waters.

You will never know how deep the water is in the road. If you drive through it, your vehicle might float and be carried away to a river or canal.

Get to the highest elevation.

If you are caught in your home by the flood waters, go to the next higher elevation or the roof. Make sure you bring your flashlight and warm clothing, or if possible a portable cooking equipment and easily cooked food. Do not attempt to swim to another location as rescuers will come to your aid.

Tie your belongings if time permits.

Though flooded, some belongings can be salvaged after flooding. It is wise to keep them in your home by tying them securely to any firm structure in your house.

Drink clean or disinfected water.

After the flood, waters are usually contaminated. You can ensure your safety by boiling your water each time. Also make sure that the food you eat did not make contact with flood water.

 It pays to be a minimalist.

Hard-earned money find their way in too many appliances, gadgets, etc. that may be overkill to serve your needs. Just buy what you really need. If anything happens to those things then there’s not much to think about.

We cannot always hold on to our life when time comes. There are things that happen beyond our control. So we should make sure that we are saved spiritually by confessing our sins and accepting Christ in our life. After all, our body is just a tent where our spirit resides (2 Corinthians 5:1).