Storm and Flood Safety Essentials

Storm and Flood Safety Essentials

Interactive Training: Preparing for the Unpredictable

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• Introduction & Flood Realities: Facilitator: Kick off with the "Why we are here" discussion.
• Understanding Storms & Flood Risks: Facilitator: Interactive quiz on risk perception.
• Flood Watch vs. Warning: Facilitator: Scenario activity: Watch vs. Warning.
• Preparation & Go-Bag Essentials: Facilitator: Checklist creation activity.
• Evacuation & Shelter Safety: Facilitator: Discussion on evacuation routes.
• After-Storm & Community Safety: Facilitator: Q&A session.

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1

Introduction & Flood Facts

Why preparedness matters for everyone.

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• Discussion: "What is the biggest flood myth you've heard?" (Facilitator: List these on a whiteboard)
• Floods are the most common natural disaster worldwide.
• Human changes (deforestation, wetland removal) intensify flood risks.
• Climate change is accelerating the water cycle, making extreme weather events more frequent and stronger.
• Flooding causes secondary threats like waterborne diseases and long-term displacement.

2

Understanding Storms & Risks

Knowing your environment.

• Discussion: "Does living near a river or coast automatically mean you are at risk?"
• Types of floods: River, coastal, flash, and groundwater flooding.
• Risk factors: Proximity to floodplains, low-lying areas, and poor drainage infrastructure.
• Quiz: True or False? 'Only people living near water need to worry about floods.' (Answer: False - flash flooding can occur anywhere.)

3

Flood Watch vs. Warning

Understanding the alerts.

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Flood Watch (Be Prepared) Conditions are favorable for flooding. Keep an eye on local news, charge your phone, and review your plan.

Flood Warning (Take Action) Flooding is imminent or occurring. Evacuate if instructed, move to higher ground, do not walk or drive through water.

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• Scenario Exercise: A weather app sends a 'Flood Watch' alert. What are your first 3 steps?
• Visual Tip: 'Turn Around, Don't Drown' — 6 inches of moving water can knock you down; 12-24 inches can sweep away a car.

4

Preparation & Go-Bags

Ready, set, survive.

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• Essential Go-Bag: Water (1 gal/person/day), non-perishable food, flashlight, battery radio, medical kit, important documents in waterproof bag.
• Planning: Identify local emergency shelters and plan evacuation routes.
• Activity: 'Pack the Bag' - Participants write down 3 items they often forget to pack.

5

Evacuation & Shelter Safety

Moving to safety.

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• Discussion: "If ordered to evacuate, what is the biggest challenge you would face?"
• Shelter-in-place: Seek an interior room, no windows, if evacuation is unsafe.
• Hospital/Facility Safety: Be aware of local emergency codes (standardized systems) during disasters.
• Seniors & Disability Support: Ensure mobility aids are near, have a personal support network of neighbors for assistance.

6

After-Storm & Community

Rebuilding and staying healthy.

• Health: Avoid floodwater (chemical/biological contaminants). Use protective gear during cleanup.
• Community: Check on vulnerable neighbors, report downed power lines, follow official guidance for returning home.
• Final Quiz: What are two things to check before re-entering a flooded building? (Answer: Structural stability, potential live electrical wires/gas leaks)

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Thank You! Stay Safe.

Preparedness saves lives. Start your plan today.

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