What’s a flood?
Flooding occurs when the often dry land is overgrown. These waters come sometimes from the rise of the sea or a flood of streams. Floods can occur in Haiti during the rainy or cyclone season, usually between May and November. Exceptionally they can occur between December and January.
Prepare before the flood
What to do in the event of a flood alert?
- Store upstairs or upstairs the objects in the basement or ground floor;
- Place your animals in the previously identified shelters;
- Plug the sewer pipes in the basement or ground floor;
- Follow the evolution of the situation on radio, television or the Internet. Respect the transmitted safety instructions;
- Avoid traveling to an area far away from home, especially if you’re not sure if you’ll be back on time;
- Avoid going to sea. If you are already there, go back quickly to the mainland;
- Reassemble the boats and anchor them firmly away from the shore;
- If a woman in the family is about to give birth, take her to the nearest hospital so she can get care if needed.
What to do during the flood?
- Avoid leaving your home if your house is solid and located outside a flood zone or sheltered from tidal waves. Outside, you risk great dangers;
- If you feel that your house is under threat, or if the authorities ask you to do so, quickly reach the shelter nearest you, with your emergency kit;
- Free the animals so they can save themselves;
- Stay inside a house or building until the end of the flood;
- Disconnect the power and close the LP gas inlet to reduce the risk of fire. If the water begins to rise, make sure you have your feet on a dry surface and use a stick to disconnect the power;
- If the house is flooded, go upstairs;
- Stay alert, calm and listen to the radio so you know what’s happening with the flood;
- Do not stay near electric pylons;
- Do not cross a river or ride a horse or drive if the level is above your knee.
- Show solidarity with children, the elderly and the disabled!
What to do after a flood?
- Pay attention to the presence of mold (mold, earth or alcohol, green or black stains on the floor or walls) that can lead to health problems. If you have a health problem, go to the clinic, health center or the nearest hospital;
- Keep from touching damaged electrical cables. You will avoid an electrocution;
- Consult an electrician before reconnecting power. Do not use defective or wet appliances;
- Do not move unnecessarily. If you have to move, always wear shoes so you do not get hurt;
- Avoid swimming in the rain or swimming pools to avoid electric shock from thunder;
- Seek medical care for the victims. If there are any wounded, quickly notify the Civil Protection, the Health Center, the Red Cross. You will thus save lives;
- Report the damage to the concerned institutions: civil protection agencies, the Red Cross and the Police. You will help the authorities to better meet the needs of your locality;
- Take photos or film the damage around you. You will help the authorities concerned in their rehabilitation work;
- Keep listening to the radio to keep you informed;
- Avoid puddles and ponds. Avoid driving. This represents a danger. If there is an emergency, drive with care;
- If you use a vehicle, drive carefully and do not hesitate to abandon it if the engine stalls;
- Continue to protest solidarity with children, the elderly and the disabled;
- For the authorities and for the insurance company, make an inventory of water damage to your home, with photos or videotapes supporting. Keep all receipts and proofs of purchase of claim goods when needed;
- Pick up litter and dead animals.