Floods: Ultimate Guide To Preparing For And Surviving A Flood

Flooding can cause a variety of life-threatening situations. One of the most significant threats is drowning. Flood waters can rise rapidly, making it next to impossible to escape or reach safety. Shallow water can be dangerous too and can conceal hidden hazards such as sharp debris or open manholes.

Electrocution: Flood waters can cause electrical equipment to short-circuit, creating the threat of electrocution. Exposed power lines can also pose a threat.

Trauma injuries: Flood waters can contain sharp objects and debris that can cause cuts, scrapes, and other injuries. Flooding can also cause landslides, falling trees, and other hazards that can cause trauma-related injuries.

Disease: Flood waters can contain dangerous bacteria and other pathogens that can cause serious illness. Contaminates can also pollute the water force, making it unsafe to drink or use for cooking or bathing.

Mental health issues: Floods can be traumatic and can cause emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. This can be especially true in cases where people have lost their homes or loved ones.

Fire: Floods can damage electrical systems, and cause power outages and gas leaks, which can lead to fires.

Preparation increases survivability!

Create an emergency plan and make sure all household members are aware of it.

Assemble an emergency kit that includes items such as non-perishable food, water, 2 flashlights (battery-powered AND USB-charged), first aid supplies, and an emergency hand-crank radio.

Be familiar with evacuation routes and potential shelter locations.

Keep important documents and valuables in a waterproof container or safe deposit box.

Protection: Keep sandbags or other flood protection materials on hand.

Keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

Be ready to evacuate! If a flood is imminent and you are instructed to evacuate, do so immediately.

If you are unable to evacuate, go to the highest point in your home and stay there until the flood waters recede.

Avoid walking or driving through flood waters, as even shallow water can be dangerous.

Listen to the radio or television for updates and instructions from local authorities.

Essential Survival Gear & Accessories

Water: At least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.

Food: Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food such as canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits.

First-aid kit: Including bandages, pain relievers, antibiotic ointment, and other basic medical supplies. There are many excellent first-aid kits to choose from right here.

Flashlight and extra batteries - many options right here. Get an additional flashlight that is USB-charged. Make sure you have a multi-port solar USB power bank to charge your flashlight, phone, tablet, etc.!

Portable radio or weather radio: To stay informed about the flood and any evacuation orders. You can get one very easily right here.

Whistle: To signal for help if necessary. Easy to get one right here.

Dust mask or respirator: To protect against contaminated air. Check out high quality dust masks here. If you prefer a respirator, you can get the best respirators right here.

Personal hygiene items: such as wet wipes, sanitary napkins, and toilet paper.

Cash and important documents: such as ID cards, insurance policies, and proof of address.

A Multi-Tool, Swiss Army Knife and/or EDC kit: for basic needs like cutting rope, opening cans, and other tasks.

Make sure you have an excellent compass as well as a handheld digital GPS device.

You should also have water purification tablets, a water filter, and a portable mobile stove.

A good set of binoculars will help you navigate your way to safety!

Warm blankets or sleeping bag: In case you have to shelter in place.

If you would like to know about other critical survival gear you should have for disaster preparedness and survival, check out my Survival Gear page here.

Note: It's important to remember that in a city-wide flood, every situation is different, and it's essential to be prepared, stay informed, and follow the instructions provided by local authorities. It's also important to have an emergency plan in place and make sure that everyone in your household and/or workplace knows what to do in case of a flood.

In conclusion, floods can be without warning and it’s important to be prepared at all times. It’s important to keep in mind that being prepared is crucial to survival.

Thank you for reading. Stay knowledgeable, prepared, and safe!