Flooded in Trinidad and Tobago: Essential Do's and Don'ts for Staying Safe
- Nadia Renata
- 2 days ago
- 7 min read
Flooding is a serious and often unpredictable natural disaster that can affect any part of Trinidad and Tobago. Whether it’s due to heavy rainfall, a tropical storm or human negligence, flooding can disrupt daily life, create hazards and pose serious threats to health and safety. As the country faces floodwaters in many areas, it's crucial to know what to do - and just as importantly, what not to do - during these challenging times.
This article outlines essential safety measures to guide you through flood conditions, helping you stay as safe as possible while also protecting your property and health.
Do's:
1. Stay Informed: Monitor Local Weather Updates
Flooding can develop quickly, so keeping up with weather reports and flood warnings is essential. Follow local news, weather stations and government advisories for the most up-to-date information. Make sure to also keep an eye on social media and official emergency alert systems for real-time flood warnings.
Pro Tip: Ensure you have a portable battery charger to stay connected during power outages.
2. Move to Higher Ground
If you are in an area prone to flooding, move to higher ground as soon as possible. Avoid staying in basements or lower-lying areas. If you live in a flood-prone area, plan in advance where you and your family can safely go in case of rising waters, such as a neighbour’s house, an elevated location or a designated evacuation centre.
Pro Tip: Never underestimate how quickly floodwaters can rise, even a few inches of water can become dangerous.
3. Protect Your Property
If you have time before the floodwaters rise, take steps to protect your home and belongings. Move important documents, electrical appliances and valuables to higher levels. Use sandbags or waterproof materials to block doors and windows if needed. Secure outdoor items like garbage bins, furniture and anything that could be carried away by the floodwaters.
Pro Tip: Consider investing in flood barriers for your property if you live in a flood-prone zone.
4. Prepare an Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is crucial during any flood event. Pack essential items such as clean water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, medication, flashlights, extra batteries and important documents in waterproof bags. If you have young children, don’t forget diapers, baby formula or other necessary supplies.
Pro Tip: Make sure you have a battery-powered radio or a phone with internet access to receive emergency alerts and updates.
5. Follow Evacuation Orders
If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it promptly. Don’t wait until the situation worsens. Evacuating early reduces the risk of getting trapped in dangerous floodwaters. Always use safe routes and avoid walking or driving through flooded areas.
Pro Tip: Keep your car’s fuel tank full during the rainy season, as flooding can sometimes affect fuel availability.
6. Ensure Safety and Comfort for Kids
Keep children in a safe, dry area, away from the floodwaters. Make sure they have access to their favourite toys, books or games to help keep them calm and entertained. Explain the situation to them in a reassuring way, so they don’t feel scared or confused.
Pro Tip: Set up a “comfort zone” with blankets, pillows and their favourite items to make them feel secure. Keep them occupied with fun activities to help distract them from the storm and reduce anxiety.
7. Ensure Comfort and Accessibility for the Elderly
Keep elderly family members in a safe, dry area, preferably on higher ground. Make sure they have everything they need, such as medication, water, food and any mobility aids (like walkers or wheelchairs). Check on them frequently to ensure they are comfortable and calm during the storm.
Pro Tip: If the elderly family member uses oxygen or other medical equipment, ensure you have backup supplies, such as extra oxygen tanks or batteries, in case of power outages during the flood.
Don’ts:
1. Don’t Walk or Drive Through Flooded Areas
One of the most dangerous mistakes during flooding is attempting to walk or drive through standing water. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet and just a foot of water can sweep away a vehicle. Floodwaters can also hide dangerous debris, open drains and even electrical hazards.
Pro Tip: If you must drive, only do so on cleared roads and avoid flooded areas entirely. It’s better to take a longer route than risk your safety.
2. Don’t Touch Electrical Equipment
Water and electricity don’t mix. If there is flooding in your home, do not touch electrical appliances or outlets. If the water level is rising inside your house, turn off your electricity at the main breaker (if it’s safe to do so), but do not stand in water to do this. Water can carry electrical currents, leading to serious injury or death.
Pro Tip: If you smell gas or notice a gas leak during flooding, evacuate immediately and call your local gas company for assistance.
3. Don’t Ignore Health Precautions
Floodwaters can be contaminated with bacteria, chemicals or sewage, posing significant health risks. Avoid wading through floodwaters whenever possible, and if you have to, wear protective clothing like rubber boots and gloves. Always wash your hands with soap and water, especially before eating or drinking, after coming into contact with floodwaters.
Pro Tip: Boil water before drinking it if you’re unsure of its safety.
4. Don’t Underestimate the Force of Rising Water
Floodwaters may appear calm at first, but they can rise rapidly and unexpectedly. Even if you’re in a familiar area, always assume the worst and take proactive measures. Don’t wait for the water to get higher before taking action. Pay attention to warning signs, such as rising river or creek levels.
Pro Tip: Don’t wait for floodwaters to recede before leaving a safe location. They may return quickly.
5. Don’t Delay Assistance
If you’re in immediate danger, don’t wait for help to come to you. Call emergency services, inform them of your location and follow their instructions. If someone else is in danger, offer help when it’s safe to do so, but do not put yourself in harm’s way.
Pro Tip: If you’re isolated, consider using social media to alert family and friends of your location, but only if it’s safe to do so.
6. Don’t Let Kids Play Near Floodwaters
Floodwaters can be highly dangerous, especially for young children. Never allow kids to play outside or near flooded areas, as they can be swept away by currents or exposed to contaminated water. Always supervise them closely during a flood situation.
Pro Tip: Ensure that doors and windows are securely closed to keep kids indoors. If they seem restless, offer alternative indoor activities like drawing, puzzles or storytelling to keep them engaged and safe.
7. Don’t Leave the Elderly in Isolation or Exposed to Floodwaters
Elderly individuals are at a higher risk during floods, so avoid leaving them in areas where they may be isolated or exposed to floodwaters. Ensure they are not left alone during evacuation or while you are preparing your home, as they may need assistance in navigating or evacuating quickly.
Pro Tip: If you need to evacuate, ensure that elderly family members are moved to a safe location before the situation worsens. Keep a list of emergency contacts, medical needs and preferred shelters for quick reference.
Caring for Your Pets During Flooding
When flooding occurs, it’s not just humans who need protection; our pets rely on us for their safety too. Floodwaters can be just as dangerous for animals and their needs must be considered to ensure they stay safe, healthy and comfortable during this time.
Do’s for Your Pets:
Create an Emergency Plan for Your Pets: Include your pets in your emergency evacuation plan. Identify safe places to take them in case you need to leave your home quickly. Make sure they are familiar with the route and have all necessary supplies packed: food, medications, leashes and identification tags.
Keep Pets Indoors: During a flood, the safest place for your pets is indoors. If your pet normally spends time outside, bring them inside to avoid potential hazards, like fast-moving water, debris or wild animals seeking shelter. If floodwaters begin to rise inside your home, take your pets to a higher floor or area immediately.
Provide Clean Water and Food: Just like humans, pets need fresh, clean water and food during a flood. If the water supply is compromised, ensure you have enough bottled water and pet food stored for at least a few days.
Use Pet-Friendly Shelters: If you're evacuated, make sure to find shelters that accept pets. Many emergency shelters allow pets, but it’s best to confirm this beforehand. Have your pet's health records and any necessary medications on hand and make sure your pet is microchipped or wearing proper identification.
Don’ts for Your Pets:
Don’t Leave Pets Behind: Never leave your pets behind during a flood, even if it feels like you have to evacuate quickly. They rely on you for their safety and comfort and leaving them behind can put their lives in jeopardy.
Avoid Floodwaters: Floodwaters can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals and other dangerous debris that can cause illness in pets. Avoid letting your pets drink floodwater or roam in flood-affected areas. Clean their paws thoroughly if they come into contact with potentially contaminated water.
Don’t Force Pets Into Unsafe Areas: While it’s tempting to try to keep your pets close, forcing them into confined or unsafe spaces during a flood can cause stress and anxiety. Always prioritize their comfort and safety and give them a calm environment as much as possible.
Pro Tip: If your pet is stressed or anxious during storms, try to keep them calm with familiar toys, a blanket or calming music. A little bit of comfort goes a long way in these difficult situations.
Safety First
Flooding can be a terrifying and overwhelming experience but being prepared and knowing what to do and what not to do, can make all the difference. By staying informed, protecting yourself and your property and following the guidance of local authorities, you can reduce the risks associated with flooding.
Remember that your safety is the top priority and while floods can cause significant damage, your ability to stay calm, take action and seek help will determine the outcome of your situation.
Comments