Flood Preparation and Planning Checklists: Hurley, Berkshire
- Ian Jones
- Nov 3, 2024
- 5 min read
Document 1: Introduction and Family Emergency Plan
Flood Preparedness Guide for Hurley Residents
Flooding along the Thames River can severely impact small villages like Hurley. While government agencies should provide vital support during disasters, they can easily be overrun and focus on higher priority activities. it’s essential for us to take some responsibility. Each household should be prepared in advance to ensure the safety of ourselves, our families, and our neighbours. Preparing in advance not only protects your loved ones but also allows emergency services to respond more effectively.
Thise living on higher ground may not be concerned however, floods may be due to heavy rain and storms, this can flood road access, bring down trees on buildings, allowing water to enter the home. Downed trees may also block roads, sever power lines and make emergency access impossible.
This guide offers a comprehensive approach to flood preparedness, emphasising personal responsibility, mutual support with neighbours, and proactive planning. Here’s how Hurley residents can get ready for potential floods.
Family Emergency Plan
Creating a Family Emergency Plan is crucial to ensure that everyone knows what to do if a flood occurs. Include the following:
Escape Routes: Identify safe routes from your home and neighbourhood, clearly marking the route if possible, with rope, bunting or other indicators. Ensure all family members and guests are aware of these routes and practice safe evacuation.
Meeting Place: Select a safe, elevated meeting place for your family in case you get separated.
Medical Needs: Keep an updated list of medications, with at least a two-week supply. Include any specific medical equipment and instructions for use. Be mindful of any family member’s special needs.
Grab-and-Go Bag: Ensure everyone knows where the emergency bag is stored and its contents.
Buddy System with Neighbours: Establish a support system with neighbours for mutual assistance and communication.
Pets and Special Needs: Plan for pets’ safety, including leashes, pet carriers, food and toileting.
Out-of-Area Contacts: Establish a contact outside of Hurley who can relay information if necessary.
Emergency Contacts: Include essential contact numbers and keep them easily accessible.
Electricity Risks: Familiarise your family with electrical safety—avoid standing in water near electrical appliances and turn off the main power if water levels rise.
Avoid Dangerous Actions: Never walk or drive through moving water, as it can quickly become dangerous.
Document 2: Household Emergency Checklist
Household Emergency Checklist
Use this checklist to prepare your household in advance for potential flooding. Tick each item as you complete it.
Item | ✓ |
Water – 2 litres per person per day. | |
Food – Non-perishable, like canned food and energy bars. | |
Manual Can Opener | |
Flashlight and Batteries | |
Candles and Matches | |
Battery-Powered or Wind-Up Radio | |
First Aid Kit & Medications – Prescriptions, infant formula, special equipment. | |
Cash – Small denominations. | |
Important Documents – Copies of ID, insurance, etc. | |
Change of Clothing and Footwear | |
Sleeping Bag or Warm Blanket | |
Garbage Bags, Toilet Paper and Personal Care Items | |
Small Fuel Stove and Fuel | |
Wet Weather Gear – Raincoats, waterproof trousers, gloves and boots. | |
Rescue Rope and Safety Equipment – For marking escape routes and assisting family members or neighbours. | |
Inflatable Boat or Canoe – In case of high water levels, to safely evacuate. | |
Protective Equipment – Waterproof gloves, sturdy shoes, waders and any necessary gear to navigate safely. Note: Make sure everyone knows where each item is located | |
Document 3: Four-Week Shopping Plan
Four-Week Shopping Plan for Flood Preparedness
Gradually gather supplies over four weeks to build a comprehensive emergency kit.
Week 1: Essentials from the Hardware Store
Containers: Large plastic tubs or backpacks for supplies.
Flashlights: One per person, with extra batteries.
Emergency Tool Kit
Duct Tape, Utility Knife and Plastic Sheets
Tarp and Rope: For temporary roof coverage.
Battery-Operated or Wind up Radio
Extra Clothing: A full set of clothes and sturdy shoes for each household member.
Books or Games for Entertainment
Rescue Rope: Strong, durable rope for marking safe routes and assisting with evacuation.
Wet Weather Gear: Raincoats, waterproof trousers, and boots.
Week 2: Canned Foods and Storage Items
Canned Meat, Soup, Vegetables, and Fruit for each family member.
Heavy-Duty Garbage Bags for waste disposal.
Alternate toilet (bucket and plastic bags)
Zip-Lock Bags to protect important documents.
Manual Can Opener
Canoe or Inflatable Boat: Consider purchasing if there is a higher risk of water levels rising significantly.
Week 3: Personal Care Supplies from the Pharmacy
Toothbrush and Toothpaste for each family member.
Medications: Over-the-counter and two-week supply of prescriptions.
Sanitary supplies, Wipes or Hand Sanitiser
Shampoo and Toiletries
Family First Aid Kit
Week 4: Water and Additional Food Supplies
Water: Three gallons per person, plus extra for pets.
Water purification tablets
Quick Energy Snacks: Granola bars, nuts, raisins, or trail mix.
Peanut Butter and Juice Cans
Disposable Utensils and Paper Goods: Plates, bowls, paper towels.
Toilet Paper
Chargers and Power Banks: Consider solar-powered chargers or power banks for mobile devices.
Document 4: Emergency Contact Information Table
Emergency Contact Information
Use this table to record essential contact numbers and locations relevant in case of a flood emergency.
Contact Type | Contact Details |
Local Police Station | |
Fire Brigade | |
Ambulance Service | |
Local Council | |
Hurley Flood Warden | |
Thames Valley Flood Information | |
Electricity Company Emergency Line | |
Gas Company Emergency Line | |
Nearest Hospital | |
Local GP Surgery | |
Out-of-Town Contacts | |
Neighbourhood Meeting Point | |
Emergency Kit Location | |
Buddy System Contact |
|
Neighbour’s Contact Info
Keep this table updated with relevant contacts and ensure all household members know these numbers.
Document 5: Other Considerations for Flood Preparedness
Additional Preparations for Your Property
In addition to your emergency kit, consider these steps to further secure your home and belongings:
Garden Furniture: Secure or store furniture indoors to prevent items from being swept away or causing damage.
Tool Sheds and Outbuildings: Ensure sheds are securely fastened or move valuable items to higher ground.
Motor Vehicles: Park vehicles on higher ground if possible and avoid driving through floodwaters.
Specialist Tools: Store tools and equipment in elevated areas to prevent water damage.
Backup Power Solutions: Invest in solar-powered chargers or power banks to keep phones and essential devices charged.
Buddy System: Coordinate with a neighbour to create a mutual support system. Check in with each other for safety and updates, especially if phone lines are down.
Electricity Risks: Turn off power at the main breaker if water levels rise near electrical appliances. Never enter water where electricity might still be live.
Avoid Dangerous Actions: Avoid wading in moving water, walking on unstable ground, or using electric appliances in wet conditions.
By following these steps, Hurley residents can stay better prepared, protect their families, and strengthen community resilience in the face of potential flooding.
Regards
Ian Jones
07469018888
FREE OFFER: Feel free to go to www.survivorpedia.info and download the 150-page eBook. It provides an overview on most disaster areas of concern along with comprehensive checklists.
Comments