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By Daniel Adaji
The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has issued safety guidelines for households in flood-prone areas, following a national flood alert by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET).
Chairman of CORBON, Dr. Samson Opaluwah, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday. He said the advisory was aimed at saving lives, reducing damage, and helping families restore normalcy after flooding.
According to CORBON, households should first “know your flood risk – which areas are prone to flooding and identify your location.” Families are urged to prepare emergency plans by agreeing on muster points, keeping emergency phone numbers handy, and identifying safe higher grounds nearby.
On protecting buildings, the council advised residents to clear drains, spouts and gutters, install flood barriers or sandbags, elevate electrical appliances and sockets above potential flood levels, and waterproof walls below ground level.
The statement also recommended that households prepare emergency management kits with potable water, non-perishable food for at least three days, torchlights and batteries, a first-aid kit, and waterproof files for important documents.
In the event of flooding, CORBON advised families to stay informed, turn off all electrical appliances, move to higher ground, and keep phones charged.
After the flood subsides and regulatory agencies give clearance, households are urged to “consult a Registered Builder to assess your building for remedial and restorative works” before returning to normal life.