To prevent floods, several structural and non-structural measures can be taken:
- Avoid building in flood-prone areas or elevate and reinforce buildings if construction is necessary.
- Elevate utilities such as furnaces, water heaters, and electrical panels to prevent damage during floods.
- Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent floodwater backflow in homes.
- Use waterproofing compounds to seal basement walls and install sump pumps or backflow valves.
- Construct flood barriers such as levees, floodwalls, dams, reservoirs, and retention ponds.
- Employ sustainable urban drainage systems to manage rainwater runoff.
- Maintain natural flood defenses like mangroves, trees, and wetlands which absorb water.
- Improve drainage systems to prevent urban flooding and keep gutters clean.
- Follow community plans and warnings, and prepare for evacuation if needed.
- Buy flood insurance to protect against eventual damages.
These methods combine structural engineering, urban planning, natural landscape management, and emergency preparedness to reduce the risk and impact of flooding.
