Flood Prevention and Safety: Essential Knowledge for Survival​

1. Flood Safety Knowledge – Responding to Torrential Rains and Flash Floods

Before Heavy Rains and Floods Occur:

1. Avoid high-risk areas – Stay away from low-lying zones and landslide-prone regions. Inspect the surroundings of your home annually in early summer for signs of geological hazards.

2. Be prepared – Familiarize yourself with the local environment and keep waterproofing and drainage supplies on hand, such as tarps, sandbags, gravel, wooden planks, and water pumps. Monitor weather forecasts from local meteorological and flood control authorities. In densely populated areas, ensure evacuation plans are in place.

After Heavy Rains and Floods Occur:

1. Report emergencies immediately – If you detect signs of disaster or witness flooding, alert authorities promptly to facilitate rescue efforts.

2. Stay calm and act quickly – Flash floods rise suddenly and recede rapidly. If you observe rising water levels in a river, evacuate immediately—never attempt to cross a flooding river. Wait for the water to subside or take a long detour.

3. Avoid electrical hazards – Stay away from high-voltage power lines and electrical equipment during storms. Turn off mobile phones in thunderstorms.

4. Provide first aid – If someone is drowning, administer CPR or other emergency aid if trained.

2. Flood Safety Knowledge – Protective Measures During Heavy Rains

1. Secure your home – Close doors and windows to prevent rainwater intrusion. If flooding occurs, shut off electricity and gas immediately.

2. Cut off outdoor power in low-lying areas – Disconnect exposed electrical sources to prevent electrocution.

3. Avoid underground passages and underpasses – These areas can flood rapidly.

4. Do not walk through flowing water – Just 15 cm (6 inches) of moving water can knock an adult down.

5. Leave mountain streams if water turns turbulent or muddy – This indicates imminent flash flooding.

6. Drive cautiously in storms – Use fog lights, reduce speed, and avoid flooded or landslide-prone roads.

7. Stay clear of downed power lines – If you see fallen wires, keep a safe distance and report them to the power company.

8. Evacuate if necessary – If your home is at risk of severe flooding, move to a safe location.

9. Call for help in emergencies – Dial 110 (police) or 119 (fire/rescue) if in danger.

3. Essential Flood Safety Tips

1. Unpredictable weather during flood season – Expect thunderstorms, heavy rain, hail, and even tornadoes.

2. Increased natural disaster risks – Landslides, rockfalls, mudflows, and flash floods are common.

3. Stay informed – Regularly check weather forecasts and disaster warnings. Educate yourself on flood survival strategies.

4. Avoid high-risk zones – Do not linger near rivers, beaches, or low-lying areas prone to flash floods.

5. Stay away from landslide-prone areas – Avoid unstable slopes, cliffs, and damaged buildings.

6. Do not swim or play in floodwaters – Avoid rivers, ponds, and reservoirs during flood season.

7. Use bridges to cross rivers – Never wade through floodwaters—find a safe detour.

8. Avoid fishing or playing in streams – Fast-moving water is extremely dangerous.

9. Stay indoors during extreme weather – If already outside, seek shelter immediately.

10. Follow school emergency protocols – Memorize evacuation routes and assembly points. Obey instructions during evacuations.

11. Remain calm in emergencies – If trapped, act decisively to protect yourself and signal for help.

4. Self-Rescue Methods During Floods

4.1 Pre-Flood Preparations

1. Monitor warnings – Stay updated via TV, radio, or official apps (e.g., China Meteorological Administration, Ministry of Emergency Management). Know evacuation routes and shelters.

2. Prepare an emergency kit – Include water, non-perishable food, medicine, a flashlight, power bank, life jacket, whistle, cash, and important documents (in waterproof bags). Move valuables to higher ground and shut off utilities.

3. Reinforce your home – Seal doors/windows with sandbags or plastic sheeting. Clear drainage systems.

4.2 Emergency Response During Flooding

• If trapped indoors:

• Move to the highest point (roof, upper floor, or sturdy furniture).

• Avoid basements and low-lying rooms.

• Shut off electricity and gas.

• Signal for help (call 110/119, use a flashlight, whistle, or wave bright clothing).

• If caught outdoors:

• Avoid drains, manholes, power lines, and submerged bridges.

• If swept away, grab onto trees, railings, or other stable objects.

• Use a stick to test water depth and avoid obstacles.

• If in a group, stay together by linking arms or using ropes/clothing.

4.3 Survival Techniques in Floodwaters

1. Float to survive – If you can’t swim, hold onto floating objects (wood, foam). Lie on your back to conserve energy.

2. Go with the current – Do not swim against the flow; angle toward higher ground.

3. Beware of hazards – Watch for snakes, insects, and debris. Wear long pants and boots if possible.

4.4 Post-Flood Safety Measures

1. Check for structural damage – Before re-entering buildings, ensure they are safe.

2. Avoid contaminated water – Boil or purify drinking water.

3. Disinfect flooded areas – Wear gloves/boots and clean with bleach solution (e.g., 84 disinfectant).

4. Dispose of dead animals safely – Prevent disease spread.

5. Support mental recovery – Help children, the elderly, and trauma victims seek counseling if needed.

4.5 Special Considerations for Vulnerable Groups

• Elderly/Children – Evacuate early; dress them in bright colors for visibility.

• People with disabilities – Neighbors/community should assist in evacuation.

Critical Reminder: Life comes first—do not risk your life for possessions! Water moving at 0.5 m/s (1.6 ft/s) can knock down an adult. Participate in community disaster drills to stay prepared.