Recent flood disasters have brought back to the agenda the precautions to be taken beforehand and actions to be taken during a flood. Dr. Lecturer Rüştü Uçan emphasized the importance of moving electrical appliances and other portable items to upper floors before a flood disaster, and specifically warned against walking or driving through waters of unknown depth. Dr. Uçan also advises not to touch electrical devices if they are wet, as devices affected by water pose a risk of shock or fire when turned on.
Attention! Do not walk in waters of unknown depth…
Dr. Lecturer Rüştü Uçan, Head of Occupational Health and Safety Department at Üsküdar University Faculty of Health Sciences, gave important advice regarding what should be done before, during, and after a flood disaster.
Industrial zones are risky areas…
Dr. Lecturer Rüştü Uçan stated, 'Recent research conducted by universities has revealed that most organized industrial zones are located in risky areas according to flood risk maps,' and emphasized that residential areas and industrial zones should not be permitted in areas prone to flood risk.
What should be done to reduce damage before a flood?
Dr. Lecturer Rüştü Uçan stated that to reduce the likelihood of damage before a flood, weatherproofing sealant should be applied around basement windows and to the bottom of ground-level doors,
“Drainage for downspouts should be installed at a sufficient distance from the residence to ensure water flows away from the building.
A sump pump and zero backflow valves should be installed in basement drains.
Important documents should not be stored in the basement to protect them from flood damage; they should be kept at a higher level.
If a flood is anticipated, the outdoor gas valve should be shut off.
Special precautions should be taken to protect electric, natural gas, or propane heating equipment.
If there is enough time, consult your electricity or fuel provider for instructions on how to proceed.
Care should be taken to turn off electricity if the flood has not yet started and the area around the fuse box is completely dry.
When turning off the power near the circuit breaker panel, look away from the panel and have a flashlight handy.”
Do not interfere with electricity if there is water
Dr. Lecturer Rüştü Uçan, suggesting that furniture, electrical appliances, and other items in the house be moved from the ground level to upper floors if a flood is imminent, continued:
“To prevent contamination, toxic substances like pesticides should be removed from the flood area. In some cases, homes can be protected with sandbags or polyethylene barriers. Water and live electrical wires can be deadly. Therefore, if there is water, do not attempt to cut off the electricity. If evacuation is necessary, leave the house immediately and do not re-enter until authorities declare it safe to return. Pets should be transported in carriers, and large animals should be kept under control with leashes. During a flood, it is beneficial to follow radio channels to learn which areas are affected, which roads are safe, where to go, and what to do if the local emergency team asks you to leave your home. Using shortcuts can lead to blocked or dangerous areas. For this reason, always follow the routes indicated by authorities. An emergency kit should also be kept in an easily accessible place.”
Do not pass through a flooded area
Dr. Lecturer Rüştü Uçan emphasized that since its depth cannot be known, a flood current exceeding shoe level can become an uncontrollable current in a very short time, stating,