Safety precaution during flood!

Recently, there r lots of flood happening around South East Asia. After Thailand, there comes Kajang. Besides that, Philippine had became the victim of typhoon.

As a result, I think the article that I came across here is quite useful for us! I know it's quite lenghty but Please read for ur own safety!


Before the Flood
The Malaysian Meteorological Department in its website, issued a warning following heavy downpours in several areas, especially in the southern states of the peninsular.

In Johor, areas such as the Ledang, Muar, Batu Pahat and Segamat district may experience intermittent rain occasionally moderate until 24th December 2011 that may cause flash floods in low-lying areas.

Intermittent rain occasionally moderate may occur over states of Pahang (Pekan and Rompin Districts) and Johor (Johor Bahru, Kulaijaya, Pontian, Kota Tinggi, Kluang and Mersing Districts) and is expected to continue until 27th December 2011. This condition may cause floods over low-lying areas.

For those affected by the flood, you can take actions before, during and after a flood to protect your family and keep your property losses to a minimum. Also, please report to your respective BCM coordinators and update them from time to time on the progress of the floods.


Stay Alert! Always listen to the flash flood announcements from the radio, TV or "Bilik Gerakan Majlis Keselamatan Negeri (MKN)" local council for the latest information and evacuation instruction on worsening weather conditions that can cause flooding in your area.

Avoid unecessary travel during severe weather. Poor visibility can make trips dangerous. Always ensure children's safety by not allowing them to play near swollen creeks, storm drains or culverts.

During the Flood

Do not go near creeks and low-water crossings. Beware of rising, swift-moving water. man-made features such as storm drains, fences and culverts create additional "strainers" that can drown even the strongest of swimmers.

If you see major obstructions such as uprooted trees, telephone or electrical poles in a creek or if you see a blocked culvert or bridge opening, immediately call 999 for assistance.

If your house is flooded, immediately turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if evacuation is necessary and move to a safer area. e.g. to the first floor or top balcony.

Evacuate your house if instructed to do so. Follow emergency instructions. It is much safer and easier to evacuate before flood waters become too deep.

If time permits, move valuables, such as important documents, jewelry and clothing to upper floors or higher elevations.

Do not go near downed power lines and electrical wires. Electrocution is another major source of deaths in floods.

Refrain from driving or walking into water that is flowing across low water crossings, bridges, or roadways. If you come across a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Heed all warnings and street barricades set up by the authorities.



After the Flood
Document the extent of the damage by taking colour photographs or video of any damage resulting from the flood.

Before entering a flooded building, check for signs of structural damage. Don't go in if there are any signs of the building collapsing.

Do not use matches, cigarette lighters or any other open flames, since gas may be trapped inside. Instead, use a flashlight to light your way.

Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
Look out for dangerous animals such as snakes, centipedes, scorpions etc. as animals lose their homes in floods too. They may seek shelter in yours.

Until local authorities proclaim your water supply to be safe, boil water for drinking and food preparation. Water should be boiled vigorously for five minutes before using.

Flood waters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, and factories. If your home has been flooded, protect your family's health by cleaning up your house right away. Throw out foods and medicines that may have come into contact with flood water as they are unsafe to consume.

Be careful when walking around. After a flood, steps and floors are often slippery with mud and covered with debris, including sharp objects and broken glasses.

May u be safe! Cheers!