The monsoon, a symbol of optimism, peace, festivity, and adventure, occurs throughout India from June to September. The influence of monsoons varies by region, with some parts receiving less rain and others becoming lush green meadows. However, floods occur when heavy rain falls in a short period of time when water enters or floods land that is normally dry. Flooding kills more people each year than any other danger associated with extreme precipitation occurrences. The water level of the Yamuna River in Delhi was reported at 206.01 meters this year, in July 2023, generating a flood-like condition. This resulted in 22 deaths in the north as Delhi saw its wettest July day in decades.
EMERGENCY CONTACT
The below link contains the "Database of State Disaster Management Authorities in India"
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): 1070
Fortunately, you may take precautions both during and after a flood.
How to Prepare yourself for floods?
Recognize the signs of flooding!! Watch for warning signs such as rising streams and rivers, heavy and continuous rain, and localized flooding in low-lying areas.
Pay attention to weather forecasts and official flood warnings issued by local authorities.
This plan should include designated evacuation routes and meeting points for your family members, should you be separated.
Identify higher ground or safe havens in your area where you can evacuate if needed.
Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan and what to do in the event of a flood.
Consider having a designated contact person outside the flood-affected area that everyone can contact.
For pet owners, include your pet in the evacuation plan.
Identify a shelter or pet-friendly accommodation in case you need to evacuate with them.
Update information: Stay up-to-date on the flood situation by following local news channels, radio programs, and official government websites.
Social networking and weather apps can also provide real-time information about flood conditions.
Follow the instructions of the local government regarding evacuation procedures and do not delay when receiving an evacuation order.
By being prepared, informed, and taking proactive measures during floods, you can reduce your risk and keep yourself and others in your community safe.
Flooding can be very unpredictable, so it is essential to stay alert and ready to act quickly if necessary.
How to protect your health in the event of a flood?
Since flooding has the potential to promote the spread of water-borne and vector-borne illnesses such as typhoid fever, cholera, malaria, and yellow fever, among others, it is critical to understand the risk and safeguard the water that causes floods. The most typical problems linked with floods include pollution of drinking and standing water facilities, which can be mosquito breeding grounds, offer chemical threats, and cause harm.
Protect your health during floods by:
Chlorine (4-5 drops) or boil all water for drinking and food preparation
Ensuring a continuous supply of drinking water is the most important precaution to take after a flood, to reduce the risk of outbreaks of waterborne diseases. Promote good hygiene practices and safe food preparation techniques
Do not use flood water to wash dishes, brush teeth, wash, and prepare food. Always wash your hands with soap and water if you have been exposed to flood water.
Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas and standing water. Even the smallest amount of water can lead to significant dangers. You do not know if a power line has fallen into the water or has dangerous chemicals. Cars and people can also be easily be swept away in floods.
Discard any food that has come in contact with flood water. If your food has touched flood water, it is unsafe to eat and increases your risk of waterborne diseases.
Safely clean your home if it has been exposed to flood water.
Throw away any items that cannot be washed and cleaned with bleach, such as pillows and mattresses. Clean all walls, floors, and other surfaces with soap, water, and bleach.
If your home is in an area with standing or standing water, use insect repellent as directed on the label and apply it to clothing or skin. You should also wear long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and a mosquito net when sleeping.
First aid for injury/ emergency wound care in floods
Clean your wound with clean water, antiseptic, or any soap.
Avoid contact with flood waters and uncleaned waters during an open wound
Wounds must be covered after cleaning with a clean cloth. If you can't find a clean cloth make sure it's washed with alcohol or antiseptic.
Remove the jewelry from the injured part.
Must-have kits during monsoon floods:
Flood first aid box at home:
Adhesive tapes of different sizes
Sterile gauze and adhesive tape
Wipes or disinfectant solution
Hydrocortisone cream for skin irritation
Pliers and scissors
Latex or nitrile gloves
Instant cold compress
Thermometer
Pain relievers (eg, acetaminophen or ibuprofen)
Antihistamines for allergic reactions
Calamine lotion for skin irritation and itching
Emergency contact numbers and first aid instructions
First aid instructions or booklet
All necessary personal medications (if applicable)
Office flood first aid box:
The first aid kit in the office can be similar to that at home, but it must be tailored to the specific needs and number of employees. It is essential to consider the number of people in the office when storing kits to make sure there are enough supplies for everyone.
Car flood first aid box:
A compact and portable first aid kit is ideal to keep in your car during a flood or any other emergency on the road. It should include:
Tape
Sterile gauze and adhesive tape
Anti-Infection Towels
Scissors and tweezers
disposable gloves
Instant cold compress
triangle tape
First aid instructions or booklet
Emergency contact number
Personal medicine (if any)
In addition, it is essential to have other essentials in your vehicle, especially during floods:
Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
Blanket
Flashlights and spare batteries
portable phone charger
Whistle (to call for help if needed)
Lifehammer or Glass Breaker (in case of jam)
NOTE: Remember to regularly check first aid kits in all of these places to make sure they're not out of date and in good condition. Also, consider the specific health needs of the people who will be using the first aid kit, such as any known allergies or medical conditions, and tailor content accordingly.
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