Caribbean Red Cross - Disaster Management

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Flood Safety Tips

Floods are the leading cause of disaster-related death and infrastructure damage in the Caribbean. They constitute a perennial problem, capable of occurring at any time.

These event however, can usually be forecast, giving you time to prepare. You should develop an awareness of your community, finding out if it is prone to flooding and learning the established emergency procedures.
BETTER BE READY!

When a flood watch is announced...

Monitor radio for weather updates and respond as advised.
Fill containers with water and place above expected flood levels.
Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home or elevate if possible.
Have an adequate supply of non-perishable food on hand.
Place important documents in plastic and store in a safe area.

When a flood warning is issued...

Remove all loose items from outside, like garbage cans, flower pots, garden hose, yard furniture, etc., and store them inside for safe keeping.
Turn off main electrical switch.
Evacuate to the nearest shelter or your pre-determined safe location if you live in a flood-prone area.

After the flood...

Clean and dry everything that got wet. Flood waters can pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms and factories. Spoiled foods and flooded medicines are health hazards. When in doubt, throw it out.
Check appliances and motors for damage and do not use them until they have been cleaned and dried.
Watch out for wild animals. Small wild animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or a stick to poke and turn items over and scare them away.
If your home was seriously affected by the floods and you suspect that your electrical wiring may have been damaged, have it check by a qualified person before turning on the main electrical switch.
Punch holes in all containers left outside to prevent water from settling and these becoming breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Purify water before using.
Never attempt to cross swollen streams, rivers or gullies by foot or in a vehicle. The force of these water ways can have deadly consequences.
If your vehicle stalls in rapidly rising water, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground. A mere 2 feet of water can float a large vehicle - even a bus.
Do not walk through flowing water. Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.

Contacts for more information