Floods are a frequent occurrence in nature that can result in substantial harm to residences and communities. Since your loved ones are more susceptible to the impacts of floods, it is important for them to be ready in advance in order to mitigate potential risks.
In order to ensure the safety of your loved one during a flood, it is important to take several steps, not just preparing sandbags. Having a survival kit can provide peace of mind by ensuring that your loved one has the essential supplies needed to survive in an emergency.
ABOUT FLOODS
It is important to be prepared for flooding regardless of your location in the United States, as it is a common occurrence nationwide. Living in low-lying areas or downstream from a dam or large body of water increases the risk, requiring additional precautions.
Various natural and man-made occurrences can cause flooding, such as tropical storms, hurricanes, intense rainfall, precipitation subsequent to a wildfire, the discharge of melted snow, and breaches in levees and dams.
Flood warnings are issued by authorities when flooding is likely to take place. The following terms are used by authorities to describe the different types of warnings issued:
- Flood Watch: Flooding is likely. Tune in to your radio or local television station for information.
- Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is likely. Be prepared to move to higher ground; Tune in to your radio or local television station for information.
- Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.
IMPORTANT SURVIVAL TIPS FOR FLOODS
- Relocate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home to higher level, if you live in an area that is at risk for a flood or has experienced flooding in the past.
- Consider installing “check valves” to stop flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
- If possible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and waterproof walls in basements with waterproofing materials.
PREPARING FOR A FLOOD
In order to be ready for a flood or any other kind of disaster, it is necessary to make preparations in advance. There are three crucial steps that must be undertaken in order to prepare for a flood.
To greatly enhance your and your family’s safety during a flood, it is crucial to possess an appropriate emergency preparedness kit, establish a plan, and be aware of necessary actions beforehand. Start today by fulfilling the 3-Step Emergency Preparedness Planning Guide.
Get an Emergency Survival Kit
To be prepared for a flood, it is crucial to obtain an Emergency Preparedness Kit for your home, office (or school), and car(s). Essential Packs offers Emergency Preparedness Kits that can provide you and your family with the necessary emergency supplies to sustain for 3 days (72 hours). The Deluxe Kits from Essential Packs adhere to FEMA’s guidelines and consist of vital items such as emergency food, drinking water, flashlights, radios, first-aid supplies, sanitation supplies, emergency blankets, waterproof ponchos, and many other essential items.
Make a Plan
To be prepared for a flood, it is necessary to develop a Family Emergency Plan. Discuss with your family members to determine the methods of communication, designated location, and necessary actions to be taken during a disaster or emergency situation.
It is advisable to revise your Family Emergency Plan every six months, as changes in phone numbers, work locations, and other vital details might occur.
First-aid Supplies
To properly prepare for any minor injuries or ailments that may occur, it is recommended to have a first aid kit. This kit should include adhesive bandages in different sizes, alcohol wipes and swabs, gauze pads, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, tweezers, scissors, antiseptic ointment or cream, a thermometer, plastic gloves, and an instruction booklet that explains how to use the items.
Your elderly loved one can feel safe and secure with all of these supplies available for use in the event of an unexpected accident or injury.
Essential Documents
When taking care of an elderly family member, it is crucial to make arrangements for a flood in Indianapolis, IN, by assembling an emergency kit. The kit should not only contain essential items like a flashlight and medical supplies but also include significant documents that may be required during an emergency.
An emergency document checklist should consist of various documents including legal papers such as power of attorney and medical records like insurance cards and living wills. The checklist should include the individual’s full name, address, date of birth, contact details for relatives or close friends, medical history containing allergies or chronic health conditions, Medicare card number, and insurance identification numbers.
Canned Food
Including canned food in an emergency kit for elderly loved ones is crucial as it can make a life-saving difference during a crisis. It is important to consider that elderly individuals may lack the ability to physically search for food in times of emergency, hence stocking their home supplies with canned goods becomes essential.
Due to its extended shelf life, canned food is perfect for planning and storing well in advance. Moreover, it surpasses other storage methods in preserving nutrients, thus serving as a valuable nutritional resource during unfavorable circumstances.
In addition, as most canned foods are already cooked and ready to be consumed, minimal preparation or cooking skills are needed to obtain sustenance from them, making them easily accessible even in challenging circumstances.
Flashlight
During power outages or poor visibility, flashlights offer a safe and dependable source of light. Flashlights are crucial as they enable elderly family members to easily find necessary items like medication, food, water, clothing, and other supplies within their homes, which may be required during an emergency.
Furthermore, if needed, flashlights can assist them in navigating unfamiliar locations. By emitting light, flashlights can also enhance the ability of elderly individuals to recognize obstacles or potential dangers that may arise in the absence of light.
Be Informed
To become prepared, the ultimate step is to have knowledge of what actions to take prior to, during, and following a flood. FEMA’s In-Depth Citizen’s Guide to Disaster Preparedness facilitates this process by offering extensive information on emergency preparedness for numerous disasters.