Main image via AutoMacha + The Vibes
Malaysia is known to have its stormy monsoon season towards the end of the year. That explains the gloomy skies, constant rainfall or what people call the “lazy weather”.
Recently, Malaysians has been experienced severe weather which led to continuous heavy downpour that caused rivers to overflow, submerging many urban, suburban and rural areas.
Homes were destroyed, people were stranded and some even had no choice but to spend the night in their cars or on the rooftop of their houses as the roads and homes were flooded.
Fortunately, floodwaters are now beginning to recede but it’s still likely to take weeks (or months) to repair all the damages.
If you’re experiencing a flooded house or if you even want to prepare yourself in case there’s a future flooding, here are some flood preparation tips for you:
What To Do: BEFORE A Flood
Image via Ashville NC
To prepare for a flood, you should:
First, find out if you live in a flood prone area. If you do , then proceed to do everything on this checklist:
- Develop an evacuation plan. Everyone in your family should know where to go and what to do if they are asked to leave. Trying to make plans at the last minute can be upsetting and create confusion, making the situation a lot more stressful.
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Discuss about floods with your family. Everyone should know what to do in case your family members are not together. Discussing floods ahead of time helps reduce fear and anxiety and lets everyone know how to respond.
3. Determine what to move up, out or away, and then do it: food supplies, furniture, clothing, medical equipment/medicines, important documents, valuable items, electronics, food, etc.
4. Use the safest routes to a predetermined place. Avoid roads that will probably be blocked by water.
5. Know how to turn off utilities, such as gas, electricity and water.
6. Tell friends and relatives where you will be in case of evacuation.
7. Maintain a disaster supply kit at home. A kit will have (at minimum):
○ First aid supplies
○ Flashlight with extra batteries
○ Non-perishable food
○ Drinking water
○ Candles, matches
○ Essential medicines
○ Warm clothes, Blanket(s) or sleeping bag(s)
○ Cash
○ Rain gear or a change of clothing
8. Make sure you have emergency supplies on hand that are stored in one or two waterproof containers that can be used if you stay, but also taken in case of evacuation.
9. Set aside in clean, plastic containers - one gallon of drinking water per person, per day for seven days.
10. Teach children how and when to call 999, the police, and fire department, and show them which radio station to tune to for emergency information.
If you’re NOT in a flood prone area or if you've already done the checklist, help your loved ones, neighbours and other more to prepare and do their own checklist.
What To Do: DURING a Flood
Image via AutoMacha
- Listen to the radio or television or your Emergency Alerting Station for information.
- Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Adhere to any emergency orders of authorities.
- Be aware of streams, drainage channels and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.
If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:
- If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Evacuation is much simpler and safer before flood waters become too deep for ordinary vehicles to drive through.
- Turn off all electric circuits at the fuse panel, gas and propane service at the meter or main entry, and water at the main valve, then LEAVE immediately.
- Stay away and DO NOT touch any electrical cables or wires that break or fall into water.
- Follow recommended evacuation routes—shortcuts may be blocked.
- Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by flooded roads.
- If you come to a flooded area, turn around and go another way.
- Do not let children play in flood water, drains, rivers or mines.
- Do not drive through water or around barriers.
A small car can be swept away in as little as one foot of water. Two feet of water will take away almost any other vehicle.
A person can be knocked down by as little as six inches of rushing water.
- If your car stops working, abandon it immediately and move to higher ground.
Things to NOT DO During Evacuation
Image via SCMP
Do not walk through moving water.
Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you..
Do not drive into flooded areas.
If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.
What To Do: AFTER a Flood
Image via The Vibes
1. Listen to radio and tv latest announcements
2. Do not return home unless advised by authorities
3. Inspect your property before you enter - look for broken parts, cracks in the structure and if there are any missing items
4. Use a stick to move small items in your property and beware of any dangerous insects or animals
5. Inspect your electric circuits, gas and water sources before turning it on
6. Bring affected electrical equipment for cleaning, inspection and repair (if necessary) by a technician at the electrical equipment store.
7. Inspect your septic tank
8. Remove all flood affected foods and beverages
9. Help your neighbours and those who are disabled or need more help
10. Alert local authorities on broken public amenities
Everyone should always be careful to take precautions and stay alert during bad weather to avoid any unwanted incidents.
Stay safe! And if you'd like to lend a helping hand to those who have been affected by the recent floods, head here: https://hitz.com.my/special/kamicare-flood-relief
Info via NaFFWs Sungai Muar + KKMM