While much of east Galway is suffering from the effects of last week’s flooding, the danger is by no means over yet as the heavy rains are set to continue and there are concerns over high tides and rising river levels.
As a result Irish Water Safety, which is based on The Long Walk in Galway city has issued a statement advising the public to take the following action due to the heavy flood conditions.
IWS chief executive John Leech says the public should keep listening to the radio for Met Éireann updates and AA Roadwatch updates and to check on neighbours particularly if they are elderly or infirm and on families with young children.
The IWS is also advising people to move vehicles and animal stock to higher ground; check small craft to ensure they are well secured or moored; ensure you have warm clothes, food, drink, a torch and radio; block doorways and airbricks with sandbags or plastic bags filled with earth. Floodgate products will work effectively also; switch off gas and electricity supplies if flooding is imminent; check the time of high water.
Regarding personal safety, the IWS is calling for people to avoid flood waters at all times and carry a mobile phone in case you need to call for help - call 112 or 999 in emergency.
It is also important to wear suitable protective clothing and personal flotation devices in on or around water; do not enter fast flowing water, and never put your feet down if swept away by fast flowing waters.
Flooding on roads will be deeper at dips and around bridges and it is advisable to stay away from sea and flood defences. When walking or driving, be aware of manhole covers and gratings that may have been moved due to the heavy flow of water.
Take care when using electric appliances in damp or flood conditions and remember that during the hours of darkness the dangers are multiplied.
After the flood avoid eating food that has been in contact with flood water; run water for a few minutes and wash your taps; check gas and electricity supply; leave wet electrical equipment alone to dry and have it checked prior to use; ventilate your property well; and check on elderly neighbours.
For more information contact Irish Water Safety, The Long Walk, on 1890 420 202 or 091 - 564400, email [email protected], or see www.iws.ie
