In Nigeria, it’s the start of the rainy season and one common issue during this period is flooding.

Flooding is caused by an overflow of water either in a normal leveled water flow area or a dry land and may occur through an escape of water beyond its usual boundaries in rivers or lakes where the water overflows.

The major incidences of flooding occur through the accumulation of rainwater on saturated grounds, usually witnessed during the rainy days.

For many, being in a flooded surrounding is not a new problem. However same has resulted in colossal loss of lives and property.  So, to avoid being a victim, here are a few things you must do this season

CLEAN GUTTERS

Ensure removal of bottles and all kinds of refuse from your gutters and drainage systems to avoid blockages that often lead to overflow.  The Government has made it easier by creating one day in every month for cleaning and clearing of the environment; making it a perfect period to clear gutters or any other drainage system available.

DIGGING GUTTERS

Gutters control the flow of rain water by keeping it from damaging your home’s foundation. Gutters need to be correctly installed and regularly maintained.When rain starts, rather than causing a flooded environment it runs through the gutter.Gutters handle the water-flow by providing a dry environment as you enter your home, their main purpose is to keep water from dripping around the house and eroding the foundation.Having a properly installed gutter can keep the soil surrounding the house stabilized. Gutters can also prevent flood around the house.

It is advisable that houses with no gutter or any drainage system to dig up gutters around for easy water flow during this season

THOROUGH INSPECTION OF THE HOUSE

If you are buying this is the perfect time to do so to be sure if during the raining season you will not be a victim of the flood. Before buying a house, a thorough inspection should be done to the house especially checking if the house is at risk of being flooded during the rainy season.

RAISE ELECTRICAL POINTS AND FUEL TANKERS A FOOT ABOVE FLOOD LEVEL

For people living in easily flooded areas, raising switches, sockets, circuit breakers, fuel tankers, air conditioner generators a foot above flooded level in the house is highly recommended.

FOLLOW THE WEATHER FORECAST UPDATES

In this rainy season it is important to keep informed by checking the weather forecast and making sure you are updated on threats that may happen as a result of heavy downpour.