The Civil Defense Force, following the issuance of an orange alert by the Meteorological Department regarding severe thunderstorms (hail is also expected), which are expected to affect the region, issues the following recommendations to the public, with the aim of prevention and proper preparation to minimize risks and negative consequences:
Measures to Protect Yourself from Flooding
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
- Make sure that the drains outside your home or workplace are not blocked.
- Make sure the gutters on your property are functioning properly.
- If you have a basement in a flood-prone area, dig a special water collection pit and install an automatic water pump. Remove valuable items or expensive equipment from your basement.
- If you live on a lot with a yard, leave—where possible—unpaved soil so the ground can absorb water.
- Secure any items that could be swept away by the water and displaced (e.g., water tanks, water heaters, etc.).
- Repair any openings in perimeter fences.
- Prepare sandbags to prevent water from entering your property if it is located in an area at risk of flooding.
- If you are notified of heavy rainfall, limit your travel and avoid working or staying in underground areas.
SEE ALSO: In the Grip of Bad Weather: Severe Storms and Hail Are Coming—When Does the Orange Alert Take Effect? | AlphaNews
During a flood
If you are inside a building:
- Evacuate basements and move to a safe, elevated location.
If you are outdoors:
- Do not cross a flooded road on foot or by car, bicycle, or motorcycle.
- Stop and change direction if you find yourself on a flooded road.
- Leave your car if it has come to a standstill, as it may be swept away or flooded.
- Stay away from power lines.
- Do not approach areas where landslides have occurred.
After the flood
If you are in an open area:
- Stay away from areas that have been flooded or are at risk of flooding in the coming hours because:
- the flood may have altered the characteristics of familiar areas,
- there are hazards from damaged road surfaces and areas with dangerous slopes, and
- the water may be contaminated if it has carried various objects or even animals along with it.
- Do not obstruct rescue crews.
- Do not use the phone unless absolutely necessary.
Before beginning cleanup efforts:
- Remember that flood hazards do not subside immediately after the water recedes.
- Check with the relevant authorities to ensure that your area is safe and that you can return to begin restoration work.
- Turn off the power and water supply switches.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing to avoid injury.
Self-Protection Measures Against Tornadoes
If you are at home:
- Remove any objects from your yard that could be blown away by the tornado, and securely fasten any that are not already secured.
- Close doors and windows, leaving interior window shutters open to quickly equalize the internal and external atmospheric pressure.
- Stay away from objects that could move and from glass that might break.
If you are outdoors:
- Keep an eye on, if possible, the tornado’s path and move away as quickly as possible from the areas it will pass through, staying clear of objects that could be blown around and strike you.
- If you cannot get out of the tornado’s path in time, lie face down in a low-lying area—if there is one nearby— protecting your head with your hands to avoid being struck by objects that could be blown around or trees that might be uprooted.
Self-protection measures against strong winds
Before and during strong winds
- Be especially careful in areas where strong winds are occurring; avoid unnecessary travel, seek shelter indoors, and close the doors and windows of your home or workplace.
- Remove any outdoor items that cannot be secured (e.g., flowerpots, small tables, chairs, decorative items, etc.) and avoid any kind of work or activity that could cause a fire.
- Secure any advertising signs you may have posted on your property.
- Avoid activities in marine and coastal areas.
- Avoid walking under large trees, signs, or balconies, and securely fasten all objects that could be blown away by the wind and cause damage or injury (e.g., signs, water tanks, water heaters, etc.).
- It is recommended that employers take all appropriate measures to protect workers performing outdoor tasks (e.g., temporarily suspending work at construction sites, etc.)
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