Stay safe: Here’s what you should keep in mind before, during and after floods

With the North East monsoons underway in several parts of the country, these tips will help you stay safe in the event of a flood situation developing. 

Before floods:

• Due to the rains, there is a chance that power might be gone for days, so remember to keep your mobile phones and other gadgets charged.
• The government is setting up shelters in inundated areas and asking people to move there. Do keep a tab of the shelters available in your area.
• Look for updates from television, internet or radio about the weather conditions outside and the forecast. Do not venture outside in case of heavy rains.
• Do not spread rumours or panic on hearing them unless the information is from an authorised source.

During floods:

• If there is no access to drinking water, collect rainwater and boil before using it.
• Do not remain in stagnant water for long as there are chances of sewage water mixing with water sources, which could lead to leptospirosis. Wear suitable footwear if you need to walk in stagnant water.
• Stay away from electric poles or wires which have fallen, as there is fear of electrocution.
• If your food stocks are running low, then make a drink using boiled water mixed with 5 to 6 teaspoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of salt. Drinking this at regular intervals will help keep hydration levels high.
• Add bleaching powder or salt or lime to knee-deep water; it is an effective disinfectant and also prevents bacterial diseases from getting transmitted.
• Stock up on ORS packets to prevent diarrhoea. Keep antiemetic drugs handy to prevent vomiting.
• Try to have freshly cooked food which has been heated to boiling point. Avoid eating refrigerated food as much as possible.
• For any help, contact the emergency numbers provided by the government.

  #ChennaiRains. Numbers area wise. Use only when needed. pic.twitter.com/Fr8g8ezFaG

  — Dhanya Rajendran (@dhanyarajendran) November 2, 2017

• In case of rain related emergencies, here are some numbers you can call. #ChennaiRains #StaySafeChennai pic.twitter.com/eD9FqUMw4K

  — Anna Isaac (@anna_isaac) November 2, 2017

After floods:

• Do not be in a hurry to return home unless the local authorities confirm normalcy.
• Before using any electrical appliances, get it checked by an electrician to avoid electrocution.
• Do not consume food which has been in rainwater for long.
• Move into your house after proper cleaning with disinfectants.
• Do not consume water from damaged pipelines as sewage water could have gotten mixed in it.