In case of emergency

During extreme rainfall and flood events, it is vital that vulnerable people are identifed, so that they can be informed and, where necessary, evacuated to safety. People with disablity, cronic illness or communication problems are especially vulnerable and must be the first to be guided to safety.

Be aware that in times of flood, the usual emergency assembly points downstairs or outside may be inaccesable, and it may be necessary to assist people to move to higher locations, upstairs or on the roof. If moving people to a flat roof or terrace, total weight and weight distribution need to be carefully considered to avoid structural collapse.

Avoid walking or driving through flood water. Caution is required if entering basements and cellars. These areas are particularly prone to ingress of water though drain pipes, toilets or rupture of waterproof cladding. Avoid entering excavated areas such as underpasses and underground car parks. These areas present a danger of entrapment and drowning.

Do not enter buildings with wet areas unless you are certain the power supply is switched off. Potential consequneces include electric shock, cardiovascular arrest and burns. Stay clear electrical transformers and substations, and be aware that live meter boxes can present a risk in flooded stairwells. Make sure all electrical appliance are disconneced. Check that hazardous materials (including flammable, exposive or toxic substances) are sealed in watertight containers to prevent their being flushed out by floodwaters. Ensure all motors and gas pipes are turned off.

Clean-up and debris removal

Anyone particpating in clean up and the removal of debris must wear rubber boots. (Boots with toe safety and anti-perforation soles are preferred.) Additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes:

• thick waterproof safety gloves made from nitrile or latex (EN 374/388) with cotton lining
• face masks (FFP2/N95 or FFP3) and safety glasses or goggles
• hard hats (those with face protection and head torches are to be preferred)

Ensure hand hygiene practices are observed when removing PPE and before touching the face. Flood waters are frequently contaminated and pose a risk of disease or infection. Be aware that bacteria, viruses and fungi may be transmitted by flood water, mud, dust or by contact with insects or rodents.

If possible, only use sterilised water. If tap water is used for drinking, cooking or the cleaning of food or utensils, it should be boilded for 10 minutes. When washing dishes or laundering clothes, be sure to heat water to a minimum of 60° C (130° F). Ensure adequate ventilation if engaging in improvised indoor cooking or heating with wood, coal or gas. Poor ventilation presents a risk of hypoxia and poisoning by high levels of carbonmonoxide (CO) or carbondioxide (CO₂).

Caution is required if using chainsaws to remove broken trees, especially if you do not handle chainsaws frequently. If using chainsaws, wear cutproof clothing, face protection and a helmet, and ensure the area is free of the risk of falling objects. Protect bystandards by keeping a safe distance when using axes, picks or sledge hammers. All tools should be tested for reliability before use. If working at heights, check ropes and climbing harnesses for damage. Only use these items as instructed. Don’t forget to take a break.

Preventive measures

The most dangerous areas during heavy rain events are buildings in depressions or on slopes, as well as those near streams, rivers and lakes. Personnel should be trained to act as first responders, first aiders and fire wardens to guide evacuation. Emergency plans should identitfy:

• emergency exits, escape routes, assembly points and places of shelter
• methods of communicating with emergency services
• locations of walkie-talkies, radios, megaphones, sirens, backup generators and pumps

Anarcho-Syndicalist Network – ASN Cologne,
https://asnkoeln.wordpress.com

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See also:
„Heat, Sunshine and Occupational Safety“
https://asnkoeln.wordpress.com/2022/07/22/heat-sunshine-and-occupational-safety/