The Barbados Fire Service encourages you to use the following safety tips to help protect yourself, your family and your home from the potential threat of a flood.

Before A Flood

• Remove garbage and other debris from around your home or business.
• Ensure that drains and wells are free and clear to receive heavy rain fall.
• Remove lawn and patio furniture from the outside and place them inside.
• Ensure that you are protected financially by having flood insurance.
• Remove livestock if they are being kept in a flood-prone area.
• Place pets and other domesticated animals indoors.
• Ensure that you have a battery-powered radio and flashlight.
• Store an adequate supply of drinking water. Tap water can become discoloured.
• Ensure you restock medicines and basic food supplies. Floodwaters can remain for extended periods.
• When a flood watch or warning is issued decide whether you are going to remain or relocate to another area. Don't wait until the last minute to leave.

During & After A Flood

• Monitor rapidly rising water levels around your home.
• If water starts to enter your home rapidly and you can move to a room upstairs do so.
• Monitor your radio for important announcements regarding flood conditions.
• Stay away from power lines and other electrical equipment lying submerged in water.
• Do not walk through flooded areas. Floodwater is likely to be contaminated and could contain sewage.
• Do not drive through flooded areas. Floodwater could conceal open manholes, road works or other objects.
• Do not drive through flooded streets. Two feet of flowing water is enough to sweep your car away.
• If your vehicle stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and move to higher ground.
• If your home has been flooded, clean up your house immediately after the flood. Throw out foods and medicines that were submerged in floodwater.