The conversation around floods has become more concerning in these parts as it has been alleged that 27 out of the 36 states in Nigeria have been hit with floods. It is said that more states will be affected and therefore, more information has been passed across for people to be alert and expect the floods.
Floods are more natural disasters than they are man-made and so we may not always have control of the situation. However, there are obvious signs to look out for or consider such as location i.e are you surrounded by more water than land, is there a river, ocean, or dam within your location, etc? If you are surrounded by one or more of the above-mentioned sources, you will most likely be impacted by a flood and unfortunately, you don’t necessarily have to be in a water-bound location to be affected by a flood which is why it is important that you are proactive whenever there is any information on an impending flood.
WHAT TO DO IN A FLOOD SITUATION
First things first, treat it as urgent! There is the temptation to think a flood should be taken with little or no urgency, this is in fact dangerous as you could lose your life to a flood when not prepared or if not careful this is because floodwater can in fact be harmful to you as it will mostly consist of sharp objects, some dangerous animals such as snakes, toxic waste, etc. So what can you do?
Vacate the Location:
The first thing you want to do in a flood situation is get to safety, this might mean leaving a lot of your personal belongings behind but hey! Nothing can be as valuable as your life. Do your best to find a more secure location, especially on considerably dry land.
Pick Only What Is Absolutely necessary:
Many times a flood may come unexpectedly so in a situation of that sort, you want to pack your most important valuables such as handy personal effects, some food supplies if you must, protective clothing, high profile documents(It pays to have these documents scanned into digital assets as a proactive means to secure them against the flood).
Get Help:
Now is not the time to stay silent, or seek for help, guidance, or assistance. Abstain as much knowledge as you can about the flood situation, possible help lines, temporary placements or homes especially if you have been internally displaced, if you have kids or toddlers and if you require urgent medical attention.
Apply Wisdom:
The best time to be seen driving or even boarding bicycles, motorbikes, or tricycles is not during a flood. Even the best cars have been swallowed by floods so please, now is not the time to test your driving abilities, stay off the road!
Finally, while some may be seeking shelter elsewhere I understand that certain others will decide to remain in their homes and this majorly applies to people living in sky-high buildings, mansions and what not; Here are a few tips to help you manage a flood situation;
- Ensure you have secured your home and property.
- Make sure you have an emergency kit.
- Relocate household members to the highest safe place.
- Inform family, friends, and authorities where you are staying.
- Plan to manage without electricity, water, gas, and other essential services.
- Stay informed for official advice via radio or other working telecommunications.