As the wrath of climate-related disasters has been experienced throughout the United States in the last few months, the federal authorities have released tips and advisories for the public to follow to keep themselves safe. 

In case an individual is under a flood warning issued by state or federal authorities they have been advised to take the following steps:

1) Find safe shelter right away.

2) Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwater.

3) Stay off bridges and fast-moving water.

4) Depending on the type of building and guidelines issued (a) evacuate (b) move to a higher ground or floor (c) stay where you are.

5) Contact your healthcare provider If you are sick and need medical attention. Wait for further care instructions and shelter in place, if possible.

Also See: Hurricane Ida causes catastrophic damage across Louisiana, New Orleans

6) Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.

7) Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.

8) Get to the highest level if trapped in a building. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.

The United States government has also advised people to sign up for Emergency Alert Systems as crucial messages can be conveyed through the portal. Additionally, keeping track of guidelines issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can be lifesaving.

A plan shall also be put in place while preparing for such emergencies “so that you and your family know what to do, where to go, and what you will need to protect yourselves from flooding”, the ready.gov website says.

The United States on Monday declared public health emergencies for the states of Louisiana and Mississippi, saying that it will help suspend government red tape that may get in the way of providing help to people affected by Storm Ida, which has so far caused major infrastructural damage in the US and claimed the life of at least one individual.