Filenews 11 September 2023
The Civil Defence Force, following a relevant announcement by the Department of Meteorology, makes the following recommendations to the public, aiming at prevention and proper preparation to minimize risks and negative consequences from any heavy rainfall:
- Make sure the manholes outside your home or workplace are not clogged.
- Make sure that the gutters in your premises are functioning normally.
- If you have a basement in a vulnerable area at risk of flooding, proceed to digging a special water accumulation pit and install an automatic water pump. Remove valuables or expensive equipment from your basement.
- If you live on a plot with a yard, leave – where possible – free soil for the land to absorb water.
- Fix objects that may be swept away by water and moved (e.g. tanks, water heaters, etc.)
- Repair any openings in fencing walls.
- Prepare sandbags that will prevent water from entering your premises if it is located in an area at risk of flooding.
- In case you are informed about the occurrence of heavy rainfall, limit your movements and avoid working and staying underground.
During the flood
If you are inside a building:
- Leave underground spaces and move to a safe high point.
If you're in an open space:
- Do not cross a flooded road on foot or by car/bicycle/motorcycle.
- Stop and change direction if you find yourself on a flooded road.
- Abandon your car if it is stationary, as it may be swept away or flooded.
- Stay away from power lines.
- Do not approach areas where landslides have occurred.
After the flood
If you're in an open space:
- Stay away from areas that have flooded or are at risk of flooding in the coming hours because:
– the flood may have altered the characteristics of familiar areas,
– pose risks from broken road surfaces and areas with dangerous gradients,
– The water may be contaminated if various objects and/or animals have been carried with it.
- Do not obstruct rescue crews.
- Do not use the phone without good reason.
Before starting restoration procedures:
- Remember that flood hazards do not subside immediately after water withdrawal.
- Make sure your area is safe and you can return for the restoration work.
- Turn off the power and water supply switches.
- Wear closed shoes and appropriate clothing to avoid injury.
