23 Safety Tips for Before, During and After a Flood

Flooding is a major natural disaster that can cause a lot of damage.  With hurricane season here, now is the time to get prepared.  At Big Bags USA, we're here to help by providing you with an outstanding flood barrier system, because mitigation is always easier than cleaning up after the fact.  In addition to flood barriers, we want to make sure you have all the tools necessary to stay safe when a flood hits. Check out these safety tips from National Geographic to prepare for a flood, as well as what to do once the flooding has begun.

Preparing for a Flood


Having a flood plan established is important especially if you live in coastal areas or near rivers and lakes, where flooding occurs more often.  Additionally, there are steps to take when you are expecting a flood in the near future:
  • Avoid building a floodplain. 
  • Construct flood barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering your home or community.  
  • Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage. 
  • If a flood is likely in your area, listen to the radio or television for information. 
  • Know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning. A watch means flooding is possible. A warning means flooding is occurring or will occur soon.

Steps to Take When Flooding is Imminent


Be sure to pay attention to the news to see where flooding is expected to occur and how bad its expected to be.  You have to know what's going on to be prepared for it.
  • Be prepared! Pack a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Don't forget to include needed medications.
  • If advised to evacuate your home, do so immediately.
  • If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground.
  • If possible, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor.
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances.

What to do During a Flood


If you have not evacuated and you find yourself caught in a flood, be sure to follow these safety precautions to keep you and your family safe.  Flood waters can be very dangerous.
  • Do not walk through moving water. As little as 6 inches (15 centimeters) of moving water can make you fall.
  • If you have to walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
  • Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
  • Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

How to React After a Flood 


After a flood, be sure to check the news to see what damage has occurred and what next steps are advised.  If you evacuated to another area, you won't know what to expect.
  • Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.
  • Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
  • Avoid moving water.
  • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
  • Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company.
  • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
  • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
  • Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.
  • Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.

Big Bags USA Flood Barriers are designed to help protect you and your homes from flood waters. As a sandbag alternative, we are pioneering ideas in disaster prevention and sandbag replacement that are fast, reliable and easy to integrate. Big Bags USA  is designed for the highest demands without straining labor or resources, saving you time and money! 

If you have an immediate need for our systems, or have any questions for us, please Call us Toll Free at 1-800-337-0537 or visit www.BigBagsUSA.com.

D.R.I.P.S.
Disaster Relief & Innovative
Protection Systems, LLC
(573) 480-6699

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ALWAYS READY TO HELP LOCAL, STATE, & FEDERAL AGENCIES ... BE PREPARED! 

Location: Camdenton, MO 65020, USA

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