The best thing is to be prepared. This Flood Checklist is a great start. Use it to build your resilience against a flood and get the other checklists plus the 1,000 PDF library from Survivorpedia.
Flood Preparation Checklist (Reviewed 9th Jan 2024)
Before the Flood:
1. Stay Informed:
• Monitor local weather forecasts and river levels.
• Sign up for emergency alerts from local authorities.
• Join local social media support groups.
2. Community Engagement:
• Connect with neighbours for mutual assistance.
• Participate in community drills and preparedness events.
3. Create an Emergency Plan:
• Develop a family emergency plan with evacuation routes. Understand the safest path from your home to higher ground. Consider ditches, drains, ponds and other underwater obstacles.
• Create a map showing the pathway and landmarks and avoid risky shortcuts.
• Establish a meeting point for family members.
4. Emergency Kit:
• Create an emergency kit with essentials such as:
• Non-perishable food for at least a week, remember your pets.
• Water purification tablets or a water filter.
• Extra clothing, including waterproof options.
• Water (1 gallon/ 5 litres per person per day)
• First aid supplies
• Flashlights and batteries
• Important documents (ID, insurance, etc.)
• Medications
• Cash in small denominations / Credit cards
• Hygiene supplies (toothbrush, soap, etc.).
• Multi-tool and basic repair supplies.
• Blankets or sleeping bags.
• Personal documents in waterproof pouch (passport, medical records, insurance).
• Entertainment items for children.
• Your Survivorpedia memory stick with survival library
5. Secure Your Home:
• Elevate important appliances and utilities if possible.
• Seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds.
• Buy a submersible pump if appropriate.
• Have a sufficient supply of sandbags and sand.
• Consider installing flood barriers or sandbags ahead of time.
6. Insurance:
• Review your insurance policy for flood coverage.
• Take inventory of valuable possessions with photos or videos.
7. Vehicle Preparation:
• Ensure your car has a full tank of fuel or the ev is charged.
• Pack the car with evacuation supplies and move to a secure location on higher ground.
• Pack a car emergency kit including a spare tire.
During the Flood:
1. Evacuation:
• Follow local authorities' evacuation orders.
• Use predetermined evacuation routes.
• If trapped, move to the highest point in your home with communications tools and supplies.
• Don’t forget the pets.
2. Utilities:
• Turn off gas, electricity, and water mains if instructed to do so.
• Unplug electrical appliances.
3. Communication:
• Keep a battery-powered radio for updates.
• Use your phone only for emergencies to conserve battery.
• Have a torch and supply of glow sticks.
• Keep a list of emergency contacts and family members.
• Use a waterproof case or bag for your phone and documents.
After the Flood:
1. Assess Damage:
• Check for structural damage before entering your home.
• Avoid downed power lines and report them to authorities.
2. Document Damage:
• Take photos or videos of damaged property for insurance claims.
• Keep records of expenses related to recovery.
3. Clean and Disinfect:
• Thoroughly clean and disinfect everything that got wet.
• Dispose of contaminated items properly.
4. Health Precautions:
• Be aware of potential health risks in the aftermath.
• Sewage systems may have leaked into the standing water, don’t let the children play in the mud.
5. Seek Assistance:
• Contact your insurance company promptly.
• Apply for disaster assistance from local agencies.
Evacuation Timing:
• Evacuate when local authorities issue evacuation orders.
• If you live in a flood-prone area, consider leaving early to avoid traffic congestion.
This checklist is a general guide. Local conditions and regulations may vary, so it's crucial to stay updated with your community's specific recommendations.
This checklist is a general guide. Local conditions and regulations may vary, so it's crucial to stay updated with your community's specific recommendations.
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