How to be prepared for a flood
Unbelievably, the most frequent natural calamity in Nigeria is flooding. Statistics show that each year, floods claim the lives of around 100 people. A further four billion naira had been spent on flood-related damages.
According to information compiled from the monthly Federation Account Allocation Committee reports, Nigeria allocated N548 billion in total for the 36 states’ derivation and ecological fund accounts between 2012 and 2021.
The following are a few suggestions and pieces of information you may use to get ready for any impending flooding.
Expect the inevitable
It’s critical that you comprehend the potential effects of a flood and are mindful of any potential harm. Some of these inevitabilities include large rocks that are rolling, trees that are pulled right out from the ground, houses that are destroyed as well as bridges, sliding debris.
Do not be reluctant to inquire.
You must also confirm with your local government and planning authority if the property you are on is above or below the flood level. Additionally, it is always wise to be aware of any flooding history in the area you are in.
Acquaint yourself
It is important that you become familiar with any or all of the flood warning signs or signals in your particular neighborhood.
The preparation of activities and tasks to complete in the event of a flood is greatly aided by this understanding.
Learn more, more, more
Learn about the evacuation plans in place in your neighborhood. This aids in your self-preparation and that of your family, friends, and the step-by-step drill.
Have insurance
When a flood occurs, having insurance that is specially designed can be helpful. Unbelievably, the insurance often associated with homeowners won’t be able to pay for any damages you sustain as a result of flooding.
Keep all proper documents.
These documents might be passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, etc. As much as possible, all of these documents ought to be stored in a water resistant box that is simple to open.
Don’t stop moving.
Consider moving your fireplace, furnace, electrical panel, or water heater up to the attic if they are currently located in the basement or first level of your home.
This will greatly reduce the likelihood of their being harmed by surging floodwaters.
All the plugs
Check valves installed in all of your home’s trap sewers effectively stop any floodwater from entering your home’s drains. Large stoppers or corks work well for securing tubs and sinks during crises.
Check and construct
It is a good idea to check the local construction codes to determine whether it is acceptable to construct flood walls and use them as barriers around your home to keep floodwater out of your property.
Waterproof everything
Basement walls should be sealed with waterproof materials to prevent floodwaters from entering through any cracks.
A phone and supplies on hand
Keep a device phone on hand at all times in case the power goes out.
First aid kits and supplies like canned goods are essential. Of course, don’t forget your can opener.
Overall, the best flood defense is always preparation.
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