Civil Protection

On Sunday 13 December 2009, the new Civil Protection Group of Benitachell was inaugurated. Officials from Valencia and Alicante attended, along with guests from many neighbouring towns, to see the official launching of the section. After congratulations and thanks from the attendant officials, the Mayor and Councillor for Security, the members were presented with their badges and identification.
It is interesting to note that, even before this event, many of the group had been in action during the storms of December 14, when their assistance proved invaluable to the village in minimising damage and disruption. They worked alongside the local police in extremely adverse conditions and clearly demonstrared the value of the Civil Protection organisation to the community.

Bad Weather Warnings (Community of Valencia) (Castellano)

Storms

Storms bring with them additional risks, such as lightning, so heed the following advice:
Try not to remain on hilltops. Do not seek shelter under trees.
Keep away from fences, railings and metallic objects. Do not use a bicycle.
If you are driving, the car is a good place to remain.
At home, close the windows to prevent air currents that may attract bolts of lightning.
Disconnect electrical appliance so that they will not be damaged by rises in current.

Flooding
(Generalitat Valenciana)
Advice to the Public

Precautions

Be informed about the risk level in your town and if the place where you live is prone to flooding.
Have a first aid kit prepared.
Prevent contamination. Keep toxic products away from where water may reach.
Keep valuable objects and personal documents in a safe place.
Have a working battery powered radio and torch at hand.
Check the house. Clean the drainpipes and gutters.

What to do when an emergency occurs.

When an emergency is announced, keep informed about how the situation is developing. Tune into radio and television broadcasting news on the situation.
Remove vehicles from areas that are prone to flooding.
Keep away from rivers and gullies and do not remain on bridges. They may collapse and sweep you away in the fall.
Only use the telephone when necessary. Do not jam the lines.
Be prepared to abandon your house, should the situation require you to do so, heeding the advice of the appropriate authorities.
In the event disconnect the electricity, gas and water and lock all doors and accesses.
Never start rumours or exaggerate news of damage.

Recommendations for drivers.

Use the vehicle only if it is essential.
Be informed of the situation before setting out on a journey.
If possible, keep to main roads and motorways.
Do not try and cross a ford, a flooded area or a bridge of whose strength you are not sure.
Always bear in mind that your life is the most important thing.

Returning to normal

Check the house for damage.
Check that you have electricity, water, telephone etc.
Follow the health and hygiene regulations provided by the appropriate authorities.
Cooperate in the task of cleaning and returning to normal.