How To Prepare For A Disaster Situation

12/28/2018 (Permalink)

If you live in or near a flood zone and plan on being a first responder, it is important to prepare for a disaster situation ahead of time. Keep these three flood response guidelines in mind. 

1. Get the Recommended Immunizations

The Center for Disease Control recommends that disaster responders receive a tetanus booster if they have not been vaccinated against this disease in the last 10 years. Either the tetanus/diphtheria or tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis vaccination can be used. The CDC also recommends the Hepatitis B vaccine for responders who plan to provide medical care.

2. Wear Personal Protective Equipment

First responders should take measures to protect their skin from contaminated flood water. Wear electrically insulated watertight boots with a steel shank, toe, and insole. Hip waders can also limit exposure to standing water. A first responder should also wear thick, waterproof work gloves and safety goggles or glasses. Long pants or coveralls, a long-sleeved shirt, and a protective head covering are also suitable for flood response work. If responders expect to enter locations that may be experiencing mold growth, a respirator may also be necessary.

3. Watch Out For Moving Water

Flood water poses a threat even if it does not seem very deep. If a person slips and falls in just six inches of water moving at six miles per hour, he or she may not be able to regain footing. Vehicles may float in 12 inches of water moving at the same speed. Exercise caution and only wade through flood water that is no more than four inches deep, is not moving, and has a visible hard surface underneath.