"Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters in terms of human hardship and economic loss. As much as 90 percent of the damage related to all natural disasters (excluding drought) is caused by floods and debris flows," reports the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of Florida USA.

Persons who live in a floodplain should be aware of the associated risks, and are advised to be more alert to what they can do to protect themselves and their properties from disasters. This is not only the responsibility of the hazard management officials but also individuals, families and employers.

Experience has shown that many of the problems caused by floods can be prevented if people would follow some very practical advice.

"Knowing what to do before floods threaten may save your life and property," this from Scott Muiznieks, Disaster Preparedness and Relief Director at the Trinidad and Tobago Red Cross Society (TTRCS).

The local Red Cross through their "Better be Ready" disaster preparedness campaign advises people to know how to recognize the difference between a weather Watch and a Warning. A Watch may be given between twelve and thirty six hours before the event. A severe thunderstorm watch puts the storm about six or so hours away and a Warning means that the storm is already occurring or about half an hour to an hour away.

Floods happen when the ground becomes saturated. If it rains hard for a short period or the rainfall is sustained over several days it is likely to flood. People in flood prone areas should be aware of this and the hazards of fast moving water which can move boulders, rip up trees, create new water channels and destroy property.

"Families in these areas are encouraged to develop a Disaster Preparedness Plan" Muiznieks says, "this may sound far fetched but it is one of the most practical family safety and survival tools to invest time in, as it helps to strengthen coping mechanisms, and to reduce fear and anxiety during the situation."

Families are being encouraged by the Red Cross to sit and plan, if and when to evacuate their homes, where to meet, who to call, where to go if they can't come home, and to put some alternatives in place. Knowing the local emergency numbers and safe exit routes out of the vulnerable areas and knowing where the shelters are is also important.

Several other safety measures include having a disaster supply kit ready with water, canned food, clothing, blankets, a medical supply kit, a tool and other supplies kit with batteries, a portable radio, plastic bags, a flashlight and the like.

Economic loss goes with the territory in situations such as these, and the Red Cross urges people to prepare protective devices such as sand bags, construct flood water barriers to avert rising water and check their insurance agent on what their policies cover and do not cover.

The TTRCS says "Better be Ready" and underscores that a major responsibility falls to the individual, families, and employers to be prepared, as this saves lives and property and makes remedial work far less in the long run.