How do people survive a catastrophe - Research Paper Example

No one wants to go through a flood or wish this upon anyone else, but they do happen. Pre-preparation for flood protection include: Avoid building in a flood plain, if possible, strongly consider buying flood insurance and elevate and reinforce the home, consider elevating the HVAC, electric panels, etc. for protection from flood waters (Schneider, 65). Consider constructing outside barriers for rising water protection; develop an emergency kit with required medicines, nonperishable foods and sufficient bottled water to cover the family for several days.

Also, develop an evacuation and communication plan, orienting the family with its contents (Bierens, 34). Flood survival tips include listening to the radio and television for weather information. If a flash flood is a possibility, move to higher ground and do not wait for instructions to move. Be aware of rivers, streams, drainage channels and other areas known to flood easily. Flash floods can occur with very little warning, such as rain clouds or heavy rain. Before leaving the home cut off the utilities, close open valves and disconnect electrical appliances.

Do not touch electrical equipment if you’re wet or standing in water, do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you. After the flood avoid floodwaters. Since floodwater could be contaminated with oil, gasoline, raw sewage and other substances. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. Stay away from down power lines and report them to the utility company.

Stay out of buildings that are surrounded by floodwaters. Use caution when entering buildings (Hamilton, 104). The foundation could have hidden damage. Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, or pits as soon as possible. Damaged