Spring flood: how to prepare and protect yourself

Spring is not only a time of awakening for nature but also a period when many face the phenomenon of flooding. Flooding is a natural seasonal rise in water levels in rivers, streams, and bodies of water, occurring due to intense snowmelt, ice jams, or heavy rains. Water spills over the banks, flooding low-lying areas, roads, yards, and residential houses. That is why timely preparation, attentiveness, and adherence to recommendations are so important.

To monitor the situation, the Orsha rescuers conduct raid activities, visit households of those who fall into potential flooding zones, and carry out preventive briefings. The Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) recommends that homeowners of private properties prepare in advance for flooding and carry out simple anti-flood measures (while observing safety precautions), including: clearing the area around the house of snow and ice; cleaning drainage and runoff ditches of debris, branches, and ice; ensuring the diversion of meltwater from enclosed depressions by creating water diversion furrows (ditches); if necessary, constructing simple barriers for water from improvised materials; removing from the yard items that may be damaged by water, and moving valuable and necessary things to the attic or upper floors; disconnecting electricity in flooded premises; moving firewood to the shed; gathering essential items (personal documents, money, a first aid kit, a supply of food for several days, warm clothing) and placing them in an accessible location that water cannot reach; and taking care of potential evacuation sites.

In case of a sudden rise in water levels, the MES will inform local residents. If you receive a message, follow the recommendations. Listen carefully to or read the message and strictly follow all instructions. If you are in a rapidly flooding area, inform the rescuers. Until help arrives, stay on higher ground. Be sure to assist those who, due to age and health conditions, cannot ensure their own safety. If there is no threat to life and health, for conducting water pumping operations from basements and adjacent areas, you should contact the utility service at the single number 115.

May your spring be filled with sunshine and safety!