Several areas of Bangladesh are currently experiencing severe floods, causing significant hardship for millions of people.
The flooding is primarily due to water rushing down from nearby hills, inflows from upstream catchments, and heavy rainfall.
Given the frequency and severity of these floods, it is crucial to be prepared.
Here are some essential steps to take if you find yourself caught in an unexpected flood:
Know evacuation routes
Keep up with warning signals, and identify areas prone to floods or landslides.
This is so you can evacuate as soon as possible to the shelters.
Ensure a supply of safe drinking water
To ensure the prevention of water-borne diseases, it is important to chlorinate or boil water before consumption.
It is important to be aware of dirty water as well.
Unfiltered and dirty flood water should not be used to prepare food or wash dishes.
Avoid walking or driving through floodwater
Electric lines often fall into the dirty murky flood water, which makes it hard to see. It's better to be safe than sorry and not walk in the water to avoid any tragic accidents.
Protect yourself from mosquitoes
It is recommended to wear long sleeves and use mosquito nets when sleeping to avoid mosquito bites.
Furthermore, using mosquito repellants can also protect you from bites.