Glass / façade
Keep away during storms; secure loose items beforehand.
Emergency preparedness · 24 min
Storm, heavy rain and flooding
Prepare the building, avoid dangerous areas and respect moving water.
Storm and water can disrupt power, transport, buildings and communication simultaneously. Preparation begins before the warning: secure loose objects, check drainage and backflow protection, store important items higher and know vulnerable routes.
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Decision compass
Decide safely
Four questions lead from observation to a clear, safer action.
What needs to be clarified now?
What must I notice first?
- Record household needs, dependencies, current official information and available safe locations.
- Agree responsibilities, communication rules and a fallback before time pressure develops.
Remember: Observe → assess → choose a safer option → act.
Prepare outdoor areas, basement, drainage, electricity and escape routes together.
EXPLANATORY GRAPHIC · PRACTICAL GUIDE
FIGHTandSURVIVEHazard zones around buildings and routes
The greatest danger is often not where water or wind looks most dramatic.
Basement / garage
Do not enter when water is rising; the return path can vanish.
Moving water
Do not walk or drive through unknown depth or current.
Electricity
Keep away from lines, cabinets and flooded electrical systems.
Afterwards
Check damage, contaminated water and official closures.
RESULT / SAFETY CHECKKnow a higher route without underpasses, stream crossings or underground parking.
Learning goals
- Prepare the building and outdoor area
- Recognise dangerous water zones
- Plan behaviour during and after the event
Before the warning
Secure balcony and garden objects, clean accessible drains and have backflow protection checked appropriately. Do not store documents, chemicals, electrical devices or critical supplies unprotected in vulnerable basements. Move vehicles from known depressions or flood areas only while there is ample time.
During storm and flooding
Remain in a stable building, stay away from windows and follow alerts. Do not enter flooded basements or underground garages: water can rise quickly, carry electricity or block doors. Never walk or drive through water of unknown depth or current; even shallow flow can move people and vehicles.
After the event
Enter buildings only when collapse, electrical and contamination hazards have been excluded. Document damage, avoid contaminated water and assess food from affected areas critically. Operate pumps and electrical systems only after clearance. Watch for further rain, unstable trees and damaged roofs.
Practical check
- Secure loose objects
- Review basement storage
- Check drainage and backflow protection
- Know vulnerable roads and underpasses
- Prepare insurance details and documentation
Important
- Do not enter flooded basements
- Avoid fallen power lines and unstable trees
- Never drive through water of unknown depth
Decision training
The basement is flooding during heavy rain while electricity remains on. What is correct?
- AGo down immediately to save possessions
- BDo not enter; contact fire services or the network operator
- CConnect a pump through an extension block
Show answer
Correct: B. Electricity, rapidly rising water and blocked exits can turn a basement into a fatal trap.