Water levels in the lower River Shannon will rise further today following an increase in flows of water discharging down the river since yesterday.Householders are in flood prone areas are reminded to remain alert to flooding risks and to have a “Family Flood Plan” in case of deterioration in conditions.
The Council wishes to remind people to avoid contact with flood waters and to check on any elderly or infirm neighbours. Parents are asked to be particularly vigilant with children.
The actions that can be undertaken immediately prior to a flood to reduce damages and protect you and your family include:
Advance Preparations:
. Be prepared to evacuate your home or business. Protect yourself, your family and others that need your help.
. Have warm clothing and wellingtons ready
. Have medications to hand (if needed)
. Make a list of children’s essentials that you will have to bring with you if you are evacuated.
. Put sandbags at any openings where the water could gain access.
. Move your car to high ground if possible.
. Have your mobile phone charged. Keep a list of emergency numbers close to your phone.
. Listen to all public alerts issued by the Local Authority or emergency services
Actions to take if being evacuated:
. Turn off gas and electricity.
. Disconnect cookers, washing machines, dishwashers, etc., connected by rigid pipes to prevent damaging the machine and the pipes.
. Store any electrical items upstairs or above flood level.
. Co-operate with emergency services and local authorities.
Close off the flow valves on propane tanks, oil drums, or other fuel containers that supply your home through pipes and fittings.
. Move valuables and other items to safety. Place them above the flood level or upstairs. (It may be preferable to routinely store such items safely upstairs or on high shelves).
. Roll up carpets and rugs and place them out of harms way.
. Empty furniture that cannot be moved and put the contents upstairs.
. Raise furniture that cannot be moved elsewhere on bricks or blocks.
Move these pieces away from walls to assist the drying later. If pieces are too difficult to lift weigh them down with a heavy object to prevent them floating and causing damage to windows, etc.
. Remove curtains if there is time, if not tie them over the curtain rail.
. Remove cabinet doors and internal doors if time allows, if not leave them open.
. Unplug any exterior electrical connections such as outdoor lighting, pond pumps and filters.
Further advice on the preparation of “Family Flood Plans” is available on www.flooding.ie
Further flooding updates are available from www.lcc.ie
