Over the past month we’ve seen an increased cases of flooding in the UK. Many homes have suffered from water damage. If you happen to be living on your own, the alert of a flood can be nerve-racking. Especially if you struggle getting using your stairs.
Here’s a couple of useful tips in the event of a flood.
Make Use of Neighbours and Friends
Living alone means that when it comes to needing a little help, your neighbours will be your first point of call. When you’re under threat of a flood, it’s good people know where you are. Especially if you have mobility issues. If you’re going away on holiday, let your neighbours know. Ask if they can keep an eye on your house.
More importantly, you should make sure you have a way to contact your neighbours. Keep their phone numbers handy, in case you need help immediately.
Have an Alternative Means of Communication
When flooding occurs electricity is shut off for safety reasons. You may find that your land line no longer works. If your mobile phone isn’t charged up – you might need an alternative.
Flashlights can be used to signal people in surrounding houses. Have something to write on too, such as a whiteboard. It can help let your neighbours know that you need help.
Identify All of Your Entrances and Exits
It’s always good to know where all of your entrances and exits are. If you find that one of your exits is blocked, you know the alternative means of exiting.
More than anything, knowing the exact layout of your home will prevent you from panicking if your first choice of exit is unavailable.
Have an Escape Chair
Your trusty stairlift is a reliable form of navigating your stairs. Stairlifts are battery operated, and carry charge for several lifts before the battery fails. But when flooding occurs and if your electricity is turned off, you may be unable to use it if it isn’t being charged.
Investing in an escape chair (or an evacuation chair) is an option. Though evacuation chairs require a second person to help, they’re vital when it comes to making your way down your stairs.
Once the threat for flooding has passed and a electrician has deemed your property safe, you may find that your stairlift needs to be checked before you’re able to use it again. We’re able to provide reliable maintenance service for all of our stairlifts in Manchester, simply contact us today on 0800 046 3438 to find out more about our maintenance service.