Flood Survival Tactics And How To Stay Alive

Surviving a flood can change your life and your family`s life. It is a deeply stressful event which puts your life in an immediate danger. If you live in an area where a flood can form and strike, you need to be prepared to act quickly to survive. A flood evacuation plan and emergency bags must be in place to avoid delays. In this article, we go through the most important questions on what are some of the basic and advanced floor survival tactics to keep you and your family alive during a flood.

How Can I Prepare My Home For Potential Flooding?

Preparation is key when it comes to safeguarding your home against potential flooding, especially in areas of the UK known for flood risks. Here are some steps and considerations tailored to the UK:

• Assess the Risk: Check the flood risk for your area on the Environment Agency’s website or through the local council’s flood risk assessment. Knowledge of previous flooding patterns can also be useful.

• Sign up for Alerts: Register for flood warnings through the UK Government’s Flood Warning Information Service (FWIS). This will give you a heads-up when there’s potential for flooding in your area.

• Install Flood Barriers: Consider using flood doors, gates, or barriers to prevent water from entering your home. Sandbags can also be used, but they are not always the most effective solution.

• Air Brick Covers: Invest in specially designed covers that can be placed over air bricks to stop water from entering.

• Seal Floors and Walls: Use a waterproof sealant on your walls and floors to prevent water seepage. Especially focus on your basement or any lower ground spaces.

• Raise Electricals: Elevate electrical appliances and sockets above potential flood levels. This might involve moving them to a higher floor or raising them off the ground.

• Install Non-return Valves: Fit non-return valves to your drains and water inlet pipes. This will prevent flood water from backing up into your home through the drainage system.

• Garden and Landscaping: Shape your garden so that water is directed away from your property. Use permeable materials for driveways and paths to allow water to drain away more easily. Planting certain trees and shrubs can also act as a natural barrier.

• Maintain Drains and Gutters: Regularly clean and maintain gutters and drains to ensure they are free from blockages. This ensures rainwater is directed away from your home efficiently.

• Protect Important Documents: Store important documents in a waterproof container and, if possible, keep a digital copy stored safely.

• Flood Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive home insurance that covers flood damage. Some areas with high flood risk might require specialized insurance.

• Create an Emergency Kit: This should include essential items such as bottled water, non-perishable food, torches, a battery-operated radio, first aid kit, mobile phone charger, blankets, and essential medication.

• Plan an Evacuation Route: Be aware of the safest routes to leave your home and reach higher ground or a safe location. Make sure all family members are familiar with the plan.

• Raise Furniture: If a flood warning has been issued, move valuable furniture and items to higher levels of your home.

Remember, no measure is completely foolproof, but these steps can significantly mitigate potential damage and ensure the safety of your household. Always prioritize personal safety above possessions. If there’s imminent danger, evacuate your home and follow guidelines provided by local authorities.

Should I Evacuate My Home During A Flood Warning?