Introduction
Flooding is a natural catastrophe forced by a rapid water level rise in a river or any other water source. It can generate material harm to the nationwide economy, the natural environment, and society. When a forecast of a possible flood is received, the population is notified with the help of the radio, television broadcasting network, and other possible ways. The essential thing is not to panic and be able to choose the most rational actions. In addition, people should follow several safety rules during the onset of a natural disaster. The principal idea of this paper is that floods can be predicted, which means that people have a high chance to take preventive measures to stay safe if not panic.
Problems Surrounding the Disaster
Floods can impact the health of the affected population in different ways. It is due to the level of vulnerability, the degree of impact, and the ability to reduce risks. Statistics often record cases of traumatic death only happening during the flood (Yari, 2020). However, a disaster’s consequences can also include injuries, infections, chemical hazards, and mental disorders (Queensland Government, 2018). It is necessary to consider while creating the entire emergency plan with clear instructions regarding every negative outcome. Kundzewicz (2018) conducted extensive research on floods’ emergency reactions and stated that “often people have no clear concept of what to do in case of a critical situation”. The outcome of events largely depends on personal readiness and the degree of involvement of the state in rescue operations. Wrong actions and ignorance of basic safety advice can lead to severe economic losses and health risks.
Possible Solutions
When a forecast of a possible flood is received, the population is notified with the help of the radio, television broadcasting network, and other possible ways. After receiving a warning about the threat of flooding, it is necessary to inform relatives and neighbors about this and assist the elderly and the sick. People should organize documents, medications, and food and proceed to safe places (Kundzewicz et al., 2018). It is crucial to take the nearest secure elevated location and get ready for an arranged evacuation by the rescue team. For timely saving, victims can make special efforts that let rescuers notice people cut off by water and provide help: hang bright towels or give light signals. The danger can come not only from water; it is necessary to avoid wires, electrical appliances, and dilapidated buildings. Al-Wathinani (2021) mentions one of the first rules to avoid the risk of infection: “Everyone should determine that it is not permitted to eat food that has come into contact with incoming water and drink unboiled water.” Injuries can often appear with fright and negligence, so it is necessary not to surrender to panic attacks and disorientation.
Conclusion
A flood is a dangerous natural disaster, but a person has a high chance of being saved. Panic is the biggest opponent and should be avoided at all costs (Kundzewicz et al., 2018). Water is fraught with many more dangers and risks, and people must comprehend and remember them. Usually, the state warns of large floods and informs about further actions according to the established evacuation plan. The best solution is to follow all prescribed directions while remaining calm and collected.
References
Al-Wathinani, A. M., Alakeel, A., Alani, A. H., Alharbi, M., Almutairi, A., Alonaizi, T., Alhazmi, R. A., Alghadeer, S. M., Mobrad, A. M., Goniewicz, K., Khorram-Manesh, A., & Hertelendy, A. J. (2021). A cross-sectional study on flood emergency preparedness among healthcare providers in Saudi Arabia. International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(3), 1329. Web.
Kundzewicz, Z. W., Hegger, D., Matczak, P., & Driessen, P. (2018). Opinion: Flood-risk reduction: Structural measures and diverse strategies. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 115(49), 12321–12325.
Yari, A., Ostadtaghizadeh, A., Ardalan, A., Zarezadeh, Y., Rahimiforoushani, A., & Bidarpoor, F. (2020). Risk factors of death from the flood: Findings of a systematic review. Journal of environmental health science & engineering, 18(2), 1643–1653. Web.
What are the consequences of floods? (2018). Queensland Government. Web.