Floods can be incredibly dangerous and overwhelming. Whether you live in flood-prone areas or are suddenly caught in a flash flood, it’s important to be prepared. Knowing how to react and having a plan in place can help you stay safe and survive. In this blog, we’ll show you a few survival tips for floods to keep you afloat during a deluge.
I live in Florida and we can get a lot of flood water from when a hurricane happens. As we’ve seen in recent years, it’s on us to prepare for this and not to rely on organizations like FEMA to do anything to help our families.
With hurricanes happening every year, the locals here are aware of what to do once moving water comes in and downed power lines start to impact the areas. The storm surge can often effect your home more than you are expecting so it’s important to be prepared for it.
- Stay Informed: The first and most important step to prepare for a flood is to stay informed. Keep yourself updated on weather conditions and flood warnings in your area. Listen to local authorities, and heed evacuation orders if necessary.
If you are new to an area that might become a flooded areas, it’s important to become friendly with your neighbors. People who have been through floods before can often share some insights into how to prepare and what to do in case of a massive flood.
- Have a Plan in Place: Develop an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and safe places you can go to. Be sure that you have a flood map so you can know which areas are likely to be flooded and which areas to bypass on your exit plan. You don’t want to head to an area that has worse flooding than your current location.
If that happens, you’ll have to return home and head in a different direction, which could cost you precious time. Make sure every family member, including pets, is aware of the plan and knows what to do in case of a flood. If you live in an area that is impacted by floods, be sure to look into flood insurance. Another part of your plan should be to bring in outdoor furniture and other things that may be swept away in the flood.
- Pack a Survival Kit: A well-stocked survival kit can be a lifesaver during a flood. Pack water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, a radio, and important documents in a waterproof container. Don’t forget to pack a whistle, as it can be used to signal for help if stranded.
We’re big fans of having bug out bags and survival bags both at the house and in the car/truck for any type of emergency. Be sure to have something to disinfect any cuts in your bag.
- Evacuate Early: If you have been ordered to evacuate, do so as early as possible. Floods can worsen quickly and dramatically, so don’t wait for the last minute. If you’re unable to evacuate, move to higher ground, and avoid floodwaters as much as possible. Later on in the flood water, sewage might start flowing in the water and that will become a major hazard in case you get a cut.
- Practice Proper Hygiene: Floodwaters can be contaminated, so it’s important to practice proper hygiene to avoid getting sick. Wash your hands often with soap and clean water or use a hand sanitizer. Avoid drinking floodwater or using it to prepare food. If you have been exposed to floodwater, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion:
Floods can be scary, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can increase your chances of survival. Remember to stay informed, have a plan in place, pack a survival kit, evacuate early if necessary, and practice proper hygiene. With these flood safety tips you’ll be prepared any time a flood watch happens to go into effect.
As you are probably aware, but always worth the reminder is to not touch electrical equipment that is down. Another thing that you have probably heard, but sometimes need to be reminded of. You might think you’re in only six inches of water, but it could be way deeper. You don’t want to be standing in water and then have it get so deep you get swept away by the current.
Stay safe and prepared, and you’ll be able to weather any storm that comes your way. After all, in the face of danger, it’s always better to swim than sink.