Tips to protect yourself and the environment against flood hazard

The recent flood hazard in Lagos state, which was caused by the down pour of rain has made it important for each one of us to be conscious on flood information and environmental issues.

Especially, when we consider that the hazard led to losses of human lives and properties worth several millions of naira.

The purpose of this article is to share flood information that will enlighten you on how to minimize , protect the environment and yourself against such unfortunate incident.
Below are tips to protect you and the environment against flood hazard:

Investigate the nature of the soil:

Before you buy any land or properties, it’s imperative to employ the services of professionals to investigate on the nature of the soil if it’s prone to flood.

In addition, it’s advisable to make your real estate investments during raining seasons especially in areas where you are not sure of the status flood wise.

Carry out topographical measurement:

The topographical surveyors will help you to measure height of the surface of the land in question at various points.The information derived can help you identify flood plains if any but most importantly help you plan your infrastructure.By infrastructure I mean, drainage, road, etc so you can avoid flood challenges.

Avoid blocking drains:

It’s been noted that dumping of waste materials in the drains has led to flooding, loss of lives and properties. So people must be conscious of making the drainage channels free from domestic wastes such as pure water sachets, food leftovers, shoes, used clothes, etc.

They should avoid dumping of refuse in the drains and remove every material that can obstruct free flow of water around their surroundings. That way, they reduce the occurrence of flooding and the loss of lives and properties.

Avoid building in any Government reserved area:

Before you buy any land, carry out necessary due diligence to confirm that it’s not government reserved area of interest. That will protect you from losing the money you invested on the land and structures. It will also help in minimizing flood problems in the environment. This is because the government may have earmarked the land for drainage system.

It’s been noted that people built structures in areas that flood occurs. When expected channel for the flow of water have been blocked by buildings, it may lead to flood hazard when there is heavy rain.

Provision of proper infrastructure by the Government:

The government should budget more funds to the provision of infrastructure such as good roads and drainage systems. They should address promptly any specific drainage issues identified in an area. The government should also pay serious attention to weather forecasts and plan ahead to prevent flood havoc.

Finally, government can help further by intensifying publicity to educate residents on flooding information and surrounding issues. Flood hazards are usually very destructive events that must be prevented from happening as much as possible.