How to Prepare for Unexpected Flood Dangers
Storms can destroy your home and level your neighborhood, but even after they pass, flooding presents unique hazards that you may not be aware of. It turns out that even walking on water can kill you.
It’s grim to think about it, but on the other hand, a little preparation can save your life. On the LifeProTips subreddit, user u / daynanfighter explained why it is best to use a small boat to get from place to place, even if the flood appears to be walkable:
Those in flooded areas should take extra care when walking on streets and sidewalks. Manhole covers are often ripped off by flooding and can be extremely dangerous as people can fall, trapped and drown.
I’m from New Orleans, where floods are common. The rise of water in the sewer leads to displacement of the manhole covers (holes in the sewer), creating a very dangerous situation, especially when water is pumped through the sewer (for example, during a flood). He creates underground rivers in which people fall and drown.
Whenever possible, use a boat when crossing flooded urban areas and be extremely careful when walking.
They also recommended bringing not only food and water, but an ax if you run to the upper level of your house – if the flood is severe enough, you could drown in the attic with no escape. If you don’t think you can punch your own roof, consider the possibility that the water may rise higher before moving to the top floor.
In the comments, people talked about other hidden dangers to be aware of when crossing flooded areas, including snakes. User u / how-about-no-bitch gave a very in-depth analysis of just how dangerous waterlogged snakes really are, and reminded that in general, you need to be aware of the wildlife. They say snakes mostly try to run away too, so stay away from them. Here’s how:
Just be aware of your surroundings and watch where you put your fingers and open doors. Be careful with thick stubble or low hanging branches. This is true for any flood. You will see many animals that you never knew existed. Also. For the fuck, watch out for the floating islands of fire ants. They are more likely to ruin your day more than most other animals.
Other important mentions: Flooding is almost certainly not fresh rainwater flowing. It’s a mixture of water and wastewater, which means you can easily get seriously ill while hanging out in it. Also, do not forget about the failed power lines. Several people wrote that they knew about people who were electrocuted when they tried to escape from home.
Large bodies of water, even new ones created on your street, often have currents that can carry you away. There will also be sudden rises in water at times, so that what seemed passable will suddenly become much smaller. But if you need to go, use the sensor in front of him and cover as much as possible, to prevent the penetration of contaminated water, according to u / NoyzMaker :
Never walk in flood waters unless you have boots or thigh boots to keep water from spilling onto you. Most of this water is contaminated, and a simple cut or scratch can easily become infected.
Also, always use a cane or other type of “probe” to check the stability of the space in front of you. Keeps you safe from being suddenly stuck in mud or open manhole covers as the OP mentions, as even something small like lifting the water meter cover can catch you off guard and sprain your ankle.
General message: don’t walk unless absolutely necessary.