When the water level rises: This is important during floods

Especially after long periods of continuous rain or after the snow melts, such as at the beginning of February, the soil can no longer absorb water. This leads to large amounts of water in streams and rivers, which then often turn into raging torrents. The sealing of the soil through the construction of buildings and roads further reduces its ability to absorb water. All rainwater has to run off into streams or rivers.

The water can flood and undermine buildings, paths or bridges. Floating debris is dangerous, as is oil, which usually gets into the water from flooded heating oil tanks. Contaminated sludge and faeces carried by floodwaters also pose a risk to health and the environment. Contaminated water is a breeding ground for disease. Floods can also affect water, gas, electricity and telecommunications supplies.

Of course, there is no such thing as complete protection for buildings against any damaging event - but it is possible to take precautions: if possible, the building and household contents should be insured, as damage can occur despite state and private precautionary measures. Important documents should be kept outside the flood risk area. It can also be useful to have your own sewage pump ready.

If flooding occurs and your own building or home is affected, the electricity in the affected area should be switched off. Flooded rooms should not be entered under any circumstances. The same applies to flooded riverbanks, streets or underpasses, where there is a danger to life. If you have to leave your building or home, you should have a small emergency kit ready (important medication and documents, a change of clothes and a bottle of water).

The Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance provides a lot of further information on this topic.

Further information on this topic can be found at erlangen.de/krisenvorsorge.

Every month, the city of Erlangen provides information on a specific topic in the series "Preparedness for crises and disasters".