3 Flood Response Tips for First Responders

7/8/2019 (Permalink)

Avoiding walking or driving through quick-moving water

How to Keep Yourself Safe When Responding to a Flood

As a first responder, there are many types of disasters that you will need to respond to in Melbourne Village, FL, including storms and flooding. However, to help others, it's important to protect yourself as well. There are several ways you can keep yourself safe when responding to a flood.

1. Ensure You Have the Correct Immunizations

When a flood occurs in your area, emergency responders are often the first to help people in need. Responding to a flood or another type of disaster, however, can put you at risk for several conditions, especially if you are interacting directly with patients. The CDC requires that all emergency responders receive vaccinations to protect against tetanus and hepatitis B, but there are additional vaccinations that can also be beneficial to receive.

2. Use Appropriate Equipment and Tools

Wearing and using the proper equipment and tools can help to prevent injuries and can make your job as a first responder significantly easier and safer. Wearing protective clothing can help to limit your exposure to potentially harmful materials in and around water. In environments that may contain unsafe chemicals or bacteria, wearing a respirator and goggles can also help to protect you.

3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Assisting others after a flood has occurred is an important job that can come with various hazards. When there is standing water in a residential area and emergency restoration services have not assessed the area, it's often useful to be cautious of electrical hazards. Avoiding walking or driving through quick-moving water unless you are equipped with the appropriate equipment is also wise. Additionally, it can be useful to avoid exposure to contaminated water if possible.

In order to have an effective flood response as a first responder, it's helpful to focus on your safety. Having the right vaccinations, using appropriate equipment and tools and being aware of potential hazards around you can help you to perform at your best.