Floods – what matters before, during and after
Floods sometimes come slowly and sometimes very fast – for example after heavy rain. If you know what to do, you gain valuable time.
Staying informed
- Austria: The federal states measure water levels and publish them on their websites. For all of Austria there is the federal platform "Pegel Aktuell". If there is danger, sirens and AT-Alert warn you.
- Germany: You can find the current situation in all states at hochwasserzentralen.de. NINA and Cell Broadcast warn you directly.
When a flood threatens
- Move important things upstairs: documents such as insurance policies and passports, valuables, food and laundry.
- Seal openings: close doors, windows and drains in the area at risk. Weigh down drain covers so the water pressure cannot open them. Check backflow valves.
- Power and heating off: switch off electrical appliances and heating in rooms that may flood. If necessary, remove the fuse – water and electricity are deadly.
- Secure oil tanks and gas pipes.
- Move your car to safety: drive it out of garages at risk in good time. According to the BBK, underground car parks can become deadly traps.
- Get children out of the danger zone in good time.
During the flood
- Do not go into the basement – it is life-threatening.
- Do not drive or walk through flooded streets. There are obstacles under the water, and the current is easily underestimated.
- Stay away from riverbanks: they may be undercut and collapse.
- Do not drink tap water or well water as long as it is unclear whether it is contaminated.
- Help others, but do not put yourself in danger. Follow the instructions of the emergency services and respect barriers.
Afterwards
Document damage with photos and report it quickly to your insurer and your municipality. In Austria there is financial support for disaster damage – your municipality has the details.