Flood: Necessary Citizen Response

As floods are often associated with intense rain, river overflowing and hurricane progressions, they are to a degree predictable and avoidable. Accordingly so, citizens should take a more practical, individualized methodology when evaluating how to protect them or evade an imminent flood.

Citizens must always keep bottled water and preserved food in storage in the instance that water supplies become contaminated and it becomes unfeasible to venture outside for food.

First though, we must discuss preventative measures. If one lives near a water body or lives on a low lying piece of land, precautions such as flood insurance, elevated housing and structurally sound frameworks are essential. Without these basics, one’s house and possessions are in constant jeopardy for water could easily enter and there would be no compensation in the least. And while flood insurance may be relatively costly, the monthly or annual payments would surely pay for themselves in the instance of a massive, sudden flood. In addition to these protective measures, citizens must always keep bottled water and preserved food in storage in the instance that water supplies become contaminated and it becomes unfeasible to venture outside for food.

In terms of response in the face of a flood, or very imminent flooding, citizens should seek high shelter, preferably at least 10-12 ft above sea level. Even buildings 5-6 ft above sea level are not safe enough as rapidly accumulating and moving flood waters can sweep objects off that level. Citizens should seek to remain in these locations until rain, wind and active flooding completely stop. Essentially, there should be a relative stillness to the air and the water should be relatively dull, except for obvious downstream currents. If equipped with a cellular phone, immediately dial for emergency services (in the United States this would be 911). Avoid using landline phones, unless the water is at an extremely low level, such as near one’s feet. This precaution should be taken so as to prevent  possible electrocution, if water should be surrounding the power-line or electrical outlet. Even though such emergency lines will probably be inundated with phone calls from other panic stricken individuals, one should remain on the line to clearly and cogently inform the emergency operator one’s exact situation and location if help is necessary.

Citizens should wait patiently for help to arrive and should not attempt to walk outside in the flood waters. As light reflects off water, the refraction creates a mental illusion depicting the water as shallower than it is in actuality. Should individuals venture out in this water they would be susceptible to deceptively fast moving currents which would sweep them down the river and possibly lead to drowning, or poisonous toxins and dangerous animals brought about by the damp and wet conditions. Flood waters are breeding grounds for malaria, various snakes and crocodiles.

Ultimately, citizens should respond to flooding with an air of protective restraint and seek authorized and structured help. After being rescued from a flooded area, citizens can then join volunteer organizations like the Red Cross to prepare meals and/or man boats to collect still trapped individuals from a terrible fate.

Sources Consulted

Sources