Safeguarding Bangkok from floods has been a major challenge for the government throughout the past few months. However, after several unsuccessful attempts to keep the capital dry, it is now time for the city people to adjust to a new soggy life. This special report will give you basic tips which can help lower losses to be brought on by the deluge.
For those living in areas where the floods are certain to come, here are the arrangements you can make on your own.
Estimate Possible Losses : Making financial assessment of the damage will enable you to plan your house restoration budget better and prioritize your properties by importance at the same time. You may find that the house clean-up job costs less than expected, thanks to the prior damage estimation.
Familiarize Yourself with the Disaster Warning System : Flood disaster has been uncommon in the well-protected Bangkok for a long time. Now, it is time for the city people to learn to memorize warning signals which could be made in the form of gunshots or flares. Always keep yourself updated on the official announcements so that you can distinguish the signal sounds.
Keep the Safe Routes in Mind : Try to find the nearest spots in your neighborhood, which are high enough to keep you safe from the deluge so you will not have to waste time looking for shelter in case of emergency.
Prepare Survival Necessities : If you insist on staying at home during the floods, make sure that there are enough resources to keep you alive physically and mentally. It is true that instant food and cooking tools are the must-have items. However, do bear in mind that non-food items are also necessary. Torches, batteries, cell phones with fully-charged batteries and portable radios will enable you to stay in touch with the outside world and prevent you from suffering from tension. It is also wise to store your provisions at different places in your house if you are not sure that there will be enough food for sale after the crisis.
Keep Your Properties Safe : Check whether there are any leaks or cracks in your house, which the flood water can squeeze in and fix them. Installation of flood prevention system is also necessary. You may leave your cars at your relatives’ houses. Anyway, make sure that their houses are high enough. Free parking provided by the government or other agencies may be packed now. Using parking service of a condominium is another option.
Consult Your Insurance Agent : If you buy property insurance, it is advisable to talk to your insurance agent to see the scope of loss your insurance can underwrite. Don’t forget to list, videotape or take pictures of your properties for the insurance claims.
Keep Your Important Documents and Valuables in a Safe Place : A safe place in your house can be anywhere on the upper floor which floods cannot reach. If you have very important documents or jewelry sets, which may be too risky for you to keep at home during the floods, banks and post offices have safety-deposit boxes for you to rent.
Post Flood Safety Techniques in Many Places : Last but not least, make copies of the list of safety techniques and evacuation plans and post them at the places, which can easily be seen. Emergency hotlines should also to be included in the list. If you are parents, make sure that your children do understand these techniques.
