Navigating Flooding Emergencies: A Guide for Safe Survival
Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in the United States, affecting millions of people each year. Navigating a flooding emergency can be fraught with danger, but staying informed and prepared can significantly enhance your safety. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do when faced with rising water levels and stranded conditions.
Initial Steps: Evacuation and Safety
When you first notice rising water levels, the initial step is to abandon your property, whether it be your home or vehicle, and seek higher ground. Only follow rescue directions once help arrives. Ensure you choose the safest visible location such as a building or a tree. If you have a mobile device, contact emergency services at 911, 112, or any known contacts to inform them of your location and request assistance. Staying calm is crucial; panic can complicate matters further.
Safe Practices and Precautions
Stay on the boat until you are assured that you can safely disembark. Avoid drinking flood water as it may be contaminated by sewage or harmful bacteria. Protect your skin from the sun if possible. Preserve all battery-operated items for emergency use only. Enjoy the increased boating opportunities the flood offers but remain cautious of unseen dangers such as floating debris and waters that might host dangerous critters. East Texas, for example, has encountered incidents where floating trash can carry hidden hazards like snakes, racoons, and fire ants, which can pose significant risks.
Emergency Situations and Boat Safety
If the water rises, find something that floats and hold on to it. In areas with swift currents, keep shoes on and point downstream. In South Texas, watch for floating trash that might be hosting these critters. It's crucial to avoid capsizing from materials carried by the flood, such as tree branches, parts of structures, other boats, or floating vehicles. Always try to make your way to nearby high points.
Transient Flood Times and Boat Drainage
During transient flood times, staying in the boat is the safest option until you can safely debark. Avoid getting capsized by materials in the water. If you need to leave the boat, use a rope or stick to secure yourself to the boat before exiting. If you lose your balance, try to grab onto something or someone else as soon as possible. Once out of the boat, swim to higher ground and call emergency services.
Car Emergency: What to Do if You Can’t Evacuate Your Vehicle
If you are unable to evacuate your vehicle, stay in the car if water is slowly rising. Turn on your headlights and hazard lights to increase visibility for rescuers. Unlock the doors, unbuckle your seat belt, and remove any outer clothing to facilitate evacuation. Slowly lower the window if it operates. If the window won’t open, use the door to exit; however, equalize the water pressure inside and outside the car before attempting to open the door. Once inside the car, wait for the water to fill it up to about neck level, and then exit the car and get to higher ground. Always call emergency services (911) immediately.
Conclusion
Preparation and awareness are key to surviving a flooding emergency. Always stay informed about weather conditions and evacuation plans. By following these guidelines, you can significantly increase your chances of staying safe during and after a flood.
Stay informed and prepared, as education is the best defense against the unpredictable nature of flooding. If you found this information valuable, consider visiting our YouTube channel for more valuable resources and tips on emergency preparedness.