Assam Floods: How to Stay Safe During a Flood; Safety Tips to Follow During Flooding

The north-eastern state of Assam is at serious risk, after increasing floodwater halted the life of citizens. Triggered by heavy rainfall, the water level in Brahmaputra River continues to flow above the danger mark in Guwahati. People living in the remotest towns such as Dhubri, are reported using boats to commute after water flooded the streets. The situation is severe and experts continue to suggest citizens remain safe both indoor and outdoor. As per the latest update, at least 28 people died in Assam and 90 percent of Kaziranga National Park has been affected by floodwaters. Below are some of the safety tips you should follow during severe flooding. Tiger Breaks Into House, Relaxes on Bed After Escaping the Floodwaters That Destroyed Kaziranga National Park. 

Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding in the state. The situation in Assam remains grim and over 57 lakh people have been affected in the state. The initial damage caused by floods is not the only risk, you would face. Standing flood water can also spread infectious diseases, bring chemical threats and cause injuries. Follow these safety tips and keep yourself and others protected. Viral Video of Deer Wading Through Deep Neck Waters at Kaziranga National Park Distresses Netizens. 

How to Stay Safe During Flooding?

• Keep all emergency supplies at your close reach.
• If advised to evacuate your home, do that immediately.
• Always be prepared. Store all important items in case you need to vacate your house during floods. Do not forget all the needed medications.
• While evacuating, switch off all the lights and turn off the gas cylinder. Disconnect all electrical appliances.
• Return to your home only after local authorities confirm safety.
• Do not drive through flooded areas and standing water. Close to 6 inches of water, you can cause you to lose control over your vehicle and risk from getting drowned.
• Walk to the floodwater, holding a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Always walk in the middle of the road or lanes or follow where the crowd is.
• Because manholes in some areas are either affected or lay open.
• Carry a small bag to keep necessary items such as mobile phones and purse, while walking through the floodwater.
• Avoid contacting floodwater as much as possible.
• Never use flood water to wash your dishes, clothes or cook meals.
• If the need arises, throw all the food items or water, that may have come into contact with floodwater.
• Keep yourself hygiene 24*7.
• Listen to your local news channels or radio to stay updated with the current situation in your city.
• Try and rescue animals, whenever you spot them in danger. Contact the rescue operation team in your area to alarm them about the same. Remember flood water affects all the living beings.
• Once the water level decreases or dry down completely, disinfect everything that got wet.

About 427 relief camps are operational across India. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are in service round the clock in the flood-affected areas and so far have evacuated more than 14,000 people to safer places. People from the remaining corners are requested by the government of Assam to donate at the CM Relief Fund and for Kaziranga Park rescue.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 18, 2019 03:22 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).