Seven ways to ensure safety during flash floods
According to Scientific American, an American science magazine, flash flooding is a type of flooding that occurs in a short period of time after heavy rainfall or high-intensity rainstorms. Such floods are most common near rivers or lakes, but they can also occur in areas where there is no water nearby.
They are frequently distinguished by a rapid response time and have the potential to severely impact and damage communities in various climatic settings around the world.
According to a United Nations Children's Fund report from 2022, flooding has affected at least 27.7 million children in 27 countries worldwide.
Floods are expected to affect over 3.2 million people in Nigeria in 2022, with over 600 people killed.
The Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency forecasted severe flooding in 2023 and urged emergency responders, development organizations, and individuals to work tirelessly to avoid a repeat of the incidents that occurred during last year's flash floods.
Mr Isaac Idoko, a safety adviser, explained that public safety information on how to stay safe during flash floods was essential for everyone, regardless of whether they lived in a flood-prone or high-risk area.
Here are seven precautions to take during flash floods:
Create an emergency plan for yourself or your family.
"It is critical to have a personal or family emergency safety plan if a flash flood occurs," Idoko said. If you work or live near a river or lake, you may be in a high-risk area for a flash flood after several hours of rain. In such a case, plan to move to higher ground as soon as possible."
He added that an emergency supply kit should be included.
He stated that this should include essential items such as drinking water, food, clothing, medications, flashlights, and important documents that will help individuals and their families survive for up to three days if they become separated from their homes.
Keep an eye out for changing weather conditions.
According to Idoko, it is beneficial to be aware of when a storm is approaching so that you can quickly prepare for safety and make necessary adjustments.
"Be on the lookout for'storm clouds,' which are often towering clouds that spread out across the sky."
If you are planning an outdoor activity and see a storm approaching, you should consider postponing it. Then you begin to prepare by bringing in any objects or items that could be swept away or damaged during flooding.
"Elevate items in your rooms to prevent them from being damaged, and ensure that you unplug sensitive electronic equipment before flooding occurs, and avoid touching electrical equipment if you are standing in water."
Avoid wading in water.
People should not wade through floodwater, no matter how tempting it may be, according to the safety expert.
"There are times when one is stranded due to flash floods." Waiting is the best option. Avoid walking through floodwaters; this is how most people drown in flash floods. The swiftly moving water can easily knock a person off his or her feet," he added.
Idoko advised that no contact be made with electrical wires, outlets, or power lines that had previously been submerged in water to reduce the risk of electric shock.
Do not drive through flooded areas.
"If you are driving a car during a flash flood, avoid driving on bridges over fast-moving water," Idoko advised. It could be a washed-out bridge, which could lead to an accident. People should also avoid driving on flooded roads, as cars can be swept away in two feet of moving water.
"The large pool may appear shallow and motorable, but this is a common mistake people make during flash floods." Stay in your car if it gets stuck in fast-moving water. If you notice that the water inside the vehicle is rising, seek refuge on the roof."
Buildings should be avoided.
"Do not enter a building where you want to take refuge from a flood if it is also submerged in water." Building collapses can occur during or after a flood, so it is critical to inspect the building you wish to stay in for foundational cracks or other damage.
"Also, look for flooded electrical systems and strange odors from burning insulation." "Inspect the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows for the possibility of collapsing," Idoko added.
Ensure your personal safety.
"The most common injuries people sustain during a flood disaster are falling due to slippery grounds or surfaces and cut feet," Idoko said. As a result, you should wear sturdy shoes and carry a flashlight.
"Be on the lookout for animals that may have entered your space with the floodwaters." After a flood, snakes and even scorpions have been known to make their way into people's homes. In any case, make sure your house is thoroughly checked, and seek medical attention if there are minor wounds."
Make necessary repairs.
The safety expert advised people returning home after a flood to throw away any food or water that had come into contact with floodwaters and to keep their children away from flooded areas.
"Leave the window open to allow for ventilation." "Disinfect all objects that came into contact with flood water and repair any appliances or sewage systems that were damaged during the flood," he added.
Jamiu Badmos, a quality health and safety expert, observed that floods disproportionately affect people with disabilities.
"After all safety measures have been implemented following a flood, residents should be good neighbors and check on family, friends, and PWDs, the elderly, those who live alone, those with medical conditions, and those who may need extra help," he said. These are the people who are most affected by natural disasters like floods."
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