Typhoon Safety Tips: What to Do Before, During, and After a Flood.

Before the Flood

1. Stay Informed
   • Monitor weather updates and emergency broadcasts.
   • Sign up for local alert systems.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit
   • Include essentials: water, non-perishable food, medications, first-aid supplies, flashlight, batteries, and important documents.
3. Create a Family Emergency Plan
   • Establish meeting points and emergency contact information.
   • Plan evacuation routes and know the location of shelters.
4. Secure Your Home
   • Elevate electrical appliances and furniture.
   • Move valuable items to higher floors.
   • Clear drains and gutters to prevent clogging.
5. Check Your Insurance
   • Ensure your insurance covers flood damage.

During the Flood

1. Stay Informed & Follow Evacuation Orders
   • Continue to monitor weather updates and emergency instructions.
   • Leave immediately if authorities advise evacuation.
   • Use designated evacuation routes and avoid shortcuts.
2. Turn Off Utilities
   • Turn off electricity, gas, and water at the main switches if instructed to do so.
   • Avoid touching electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
3. Avoid Floodwaters
   • Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters.
   • If you must walk through water, use a stick to check the ground’s firmness.
4. Move to Higher Ground
   • If trapped, move to the highest level of your home and call for help.
   • Avoid enclosed attics without proper ventilation.
5. Stay Safe Indoors
   • Stay in a safe location inside your home and avoid basements.

After the Flood

1. Return Home Safely
   • Only return home when authorities declare it safe.
   • Avoid driving through flooded areas.
2. Inspect Your Home
   • Check for structural damage and hazards such as gas leaks and electrical issues.
   • Avoid entering buildings if they are still surrounded by floodwater.
3. Document Damage
   • Take photos and videos of the damage for insurance claims.
4. Clean Up Safely
   • Wear protective clothing and use gloves and masks.
   • Discard contaminated food and water.
5. Seek Assistance
   • Contact local disaster relief organizations for help.
   • Apply for financial assistance if available.
6. Monitor Health
   • Be aware of signs of waterborne illnesses and seek medical attention if necessary.

Having a plan and being prepared can greatly increase your safety and ability to respond effectively during a flood caused by a typhoon.