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Flood Safety and Preparedness: After a Flood
For more detailed information download the Environment Agency booklet 'What to do before, during, and after a flood' by clicking HERE.
After the Flood
Going back in to your home after a flood can be dangerous. A flood doesn't need to destroy a home to leave dangers. Floods can cause severe structural damage, as well as damage to electrics and more. You may not always be able to see the damage caused by a flood. Follow these tips when returning home after a flood:
- Stay off the streets. If you need to go out watch for downed wires and other fallen objects, weakened and damaged walls, roads, bridges, and pavements.
- Do not return home until you are told it is safe to do so.
- Keep a portable radio with you to ensure you can listen to the latest updates.
- Use a torch to inspect damage to your home until you are sure the electrics are safe.
- Check the outside of your home before you go in. Check for loose wires, gas leaks, and any structural damage.
- If you did not turn the electricity off before you left, turn it off on your return until you are sure the electrics are safe. Whilst the power is off, unplug and dry out any appliances that may have been affected by flood water.
- If you suspect a gas leak, switch off the gas supply and call the gas company.
- While the electricity is off, hose down the house to remove any health hazards left behind by flood mud.
- Shovel out as much mud as possible. Use a mop or squeegee to remove excess water.
- Begin to remove water-damaged materials immediately.
- Remove as much standing water from inside the house as possible.
- Ventilate with fans and / or dehumidifiers.
- Keep pets and children indoors if safe to do so.
Cleaning Up and Preventing Mold
- Fix any water leaks
- Open doors and windows to ventilate your home. Use fans and dehumidifiers if possible.
- Remove any mold already present using a diluted bleach. Scrub absorbent surfaces with the solution using a hard brush. rinse and allow to dry.
- Wash hard surfaces with soap and water. Disinfect and allow to dry.
Keeping Food and Water Safe
- Pay attention to local officials for guidance on the safety of drinking water. If your tap water is not up to standard use bottled water, boiled water, or disinfected water.
- If water is to be boiled, it should be boiled for at least 1 minute.
- Dispose of any food stuffs that may have come in to contact with flood waters.
Assess the Psychological Impact
- Traumatic events, such as severe floods, can cause emotional and psychological trauma. Children can be especially affected.
- Encourage children to voice their feelings. Listen to and acknowledge their fears.
- If possible, and if there is no danger, include children in the cleanup. this will allow them to see their household returning to normal.
- If you, or your family, need crisis counselling seek help immediately.
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