Floods are generally triggered by highly excessive rainfall in almost no time, submerged localities and vehicles, as hapless residents moved to safer areas. Now that the rains have taken a back seat for a while, water levels have begun to recede.
But fresh challenges in the form of rubble and reptiles shall continue to emerge as the state treks back to normalcy. We take a look at 8 precautions that you must exercise before re-entering flooded structures.
Power and Electricity
Once the water is completely drained, restore power only after ensuring that no damage has been done to the wiring. Watch out for loose wires, check household electronic equipment before using them, and charge your phones and other devices.
Rubble and Reptiles
Flood waters can carry both rubble and reptiles to great distances. While re-entering a flood-hit structure, check for snakes, scorpions, and other insects. We recommend calling pest control once your area is accessible.
Interiors
It is safe to wash the walls with plain water. You can also add phenyl and/or Dettol to disinfect your house. Also, discard any items which have been destroyed by flood waters. But do so in a proper manner, without adding to the chaos outside.
Kitchenware
Before you start using the vessels in your house, be sure to wash them properly at least twice. If the sun is out, it is highly recommended that you spread out your kitchenware on the terrace or balcony, and let it dry in sunlight for a while.
Drinking Water
Drinking water must be boiled before consumption. If you have a water purifier installed, do ensure that it is working properly and clean the tap on the purifier. It is recommended that you still boil the water.
Clothing
If your clothes remained submerged in flood waters, it is safe to wash them in a mix of water and Dettol. Don’t forget to dry them in the sun before wearing them. Don’t throw clothes out on the road as this might lead to excessive clogging in your area.
Water Tanks
Your water tanks and sumps aren’t safe either. You must empty them and scrub them clean with bleaching powder or liquid chlorine. For 1000 litres of water, 4 gm of bleaching powder and/or 20 ml of chlorine is deemed sufficient.
Infections and Diseases
Infections and diseases are an imminent threat in flood-hit areas. Diarrhoea is a common problem and thus intake of coconut water and ORS must be increased if someone is struggling with this condition.