People Urged To Prepare For Flooding As Ireland Braces For Storm Callum

Here are some of the things you can do if you are in a coastal area that is at risk of flooding.

Before floods

• Check for local flood warnings. You can get updates from local radio and TV news as well as Met Éireann.
• If there’s a risk of flooding, let your neighbours know. Also, tell older and vulnerable people who live nearby.
• Sandbags and sand from builders’ merchants can be used as a barrier to divert water and prevent or reduce flood water damage. Buy sand and sandbags in advance.
• Move vehicles to higher ground so they won’t be caught in rising floodwater.
• Take photographs inside your home. This may help with insurance claims.
• Turn off the mains power before you leave. You can be electrocuted in floodwater if the power remains switched on.
• Put sandbags in toilet bowls to prevent sewage backflow.
• Shut and lock all windows and doors. This will protect your property and may reduce the volume of floodwater entering the building.
• Take all pets with you when you leave so they aren’t trapped by rising water.

During floods

• Don’t walk, swim or drive through floodwater. Six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over. Two feet of water can float a car.
• Don’t walk on sea defences or riverbanks.
• Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage. If you’re exposed, wash your hands and clothes thoroughly in clean water.
• Don’t allow children to play in or near floodwater.

After floods

• Dispose of any food that may have been in floodwater.
• Boil tap water or use bottled water until supplies are declared safe.

Visit the OPW flood planning preparation website for more info.

If you’re are ensure whether you are at risk of flooding you can check here.

Stay safe guys, and for the love of all that is holy – please do not go for a feckin’ swim tomorrow.

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