Which of these actions is cool in a flood emergency? Explain to the children that you are going to describe some things that people might do during a flood. Tell the children that: If the action is safe, they need to give a thumbs up and say “That’s cool!” If the action is unsafe, they need to give a thumbs down and say “No way!”
Go and play near a river if there is a flood alert. Thumbs down: You should not go near any rivers that may have flooded before if there is a flood alert in the area. A river could overflow very quickly.
Listen to the news for updates on flooding. Thumbs up: If it has been raining a lot and you live in an area where flooding has occurred in the past, it is important to listen to the news.
Pack a bag with things you will need if you have to leave your home. Thumbs up: It is important to be prepared in case you need to leave your home quickly. Things you would pack include: a spare change of clothes, a toy for comfort, water, food, torch, toiletries, etc.
Leave the electricity and water supplies switched on. Thumbs down: Your parents/guardians should turn off gas, electricity and water supplies if it is safe to do so.
Go somewhere higher and safer with your family if there is a flood warning and officials are saying to leave the area. Thumbs up: If there is a flood warning for your area, it means it is likely to flood soon. Therefore, it is important to go somewhere you will be safe from the flood – especially if your area has been flooded before.
Play in moving flood water. Thumbs down: Flood water that is just six inches deep can knock you off your feet. Flood water can also be bad for your health as it could be polluted.
If you are leaving your home by car and come across flood water, do not drive through it. Go another way. Thumbs up: Always try and avoid flood waters. Flood water that is just six inches deep can knock you off your feet, and flood water just two feet deep can sweep a car off the road. When you come to flood waters, remember the safety rule: Turn Around, Don’t Drown!