THE-BEST-WAYS-ON-DISASTER-PREPAREDNESS: PLANNING-AND-PREPARING-FOR-EMERGENCIES-OR DISASTERS,-INCLUDING-NATURAL-DISASTERS-AND-MAN-MADE -VENTS

THE BEST WAYS ON DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: PLANNING AND PREPARING FOR EMERGENCIES OR DISASTERS, INCLUDING NATURAL DISASTERS AND MA-MADE EVENTS

Dave Ikiedei Asei 

02/01/2023

The heavy floods in 2012 and 2022 should give everyone concern especially federal, state and local government authorities in the world and especially in Nigeria. For us to be prepared for the future, we should take note of the following:

DISASTERS PREPAREDNESS:

• Make a plan: Identify an evacuation route and a safe place to go in case of an emergency. Plan how you will communicate with family members and how you will get to a safe place.

• Assemble a disaster supply kit: Include essential items such as water, food, first-aid supplies, and important documents.

• Stay informed: Keep a battery-powered radio or a NOAA Weather Radio with you in case of power outages. Stay tuned to local news for updates and follow the instructions of local authorities.

• Learn basic first aid: Take a first aid and CPR class to learn how to assist someone who is injured or in need of medical attention.

• Stay safe: Follow safety precautions and guidelines during and after a disaster. Avoid floodwaters and stay away from downed power lines.

• Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye on the weather and be aware of any potential hazards in your area.

• Take action: If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately. If you are told to stay where you are, follow the instructions of local authorities and stay put.

HIW TO  DEAL WITH HEAVY FLOODING

If you are in an area that is prone to flooding, it is important to be prepared in case of a flood. Here are some additional tips for dealing with flooding:

• Elevate your home: If your home is located in a flood-prone area, consider elevating the structure to reduce the risk of flood damage.

• Install flood barriers: Flood barriers, such as sandbags or floodwalls, can help protect your home from floodwaters.

• Move valuable items to higher ground: If you know a flood is coming, move valuable items, such as documents and electronics, to higher ground.

• Evacuate if necessary: If local authorities issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. Do not try to drive through floodwaters, as they can be deeper and more powerful than they appear.

• Turn off utilities: If you are instructed to evacuate or if you are leaving your home, turn off the gas, electricity, and water to reduce the risk of damage.

• Stay safe: If you are stuck in a flooded area, stay on higher ground and do no t try to walk or swim through floodwaters. Wait for the water to recede before attempting to leave the area.

By following these tips, you can better protect yourself and your home during a flood.

WHAT SHOUKD BE DONE TO PROTECT LIVES AND PROPERTIES WHEN FLOODS LIKE 2012 AND 2022  COMES?

THE FOLLOWING TIOS COULD HELP:

• Listen to local authorities: Follow evacuation orders and any other instructions from local authorities. They will have the most up-to-date information on the flood and will be able to advise you on the best course of action.

• Create an emergency communication plan: Make a plan for how you will communicate with family members and stay in touch during a flood. Consider keeping a phone charger or a backup battery-powered phone on hand in case of power outages.

• Secure your home: If you know a flood is coming, take steps to protect your home. This may include sandbagging, installing flood barriers, or moving valuable items to higher ground.

• Protect your possessions: If you are unable to move your possessions to higher ground, try to elevate them off the floor or move them to an upper floor.

• Stay away from floodwaters: Floodwaters can contain bacteria, chemicals, and other hazards. Avoid contact with floodwaters and do not try to drive through them.

• Seek shelter: If you are unable to evacuate, seek shelter on the highest floor of your home or in a designated shelter.

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, protecting lives and property during a flood requires advance planning and a willingness to follow the instructions of local authorities. Some key steps to take include:

Create an emergency communication plan and make a plan for evacuation.

Assemble a disaster supply kit and keep it in a readily accessible location.

Stay informed by listening to local news and following the instructions of local authorities.

Take steps to secure your home and protect your possessions, such as sandbagging, installing flood barriers, and moving valuable items to higher ground.

Stay away from floodwaters and seek shelter on the highest floor of your home or in a designated shelter if necessary.

By following these guidelines, you can better protect yourself and your property during a flood.