What should be the primary focus of an Investigator during a flood assessment?

The primary focus of an Investigator during a flood assessment is to identify sources of water. This is crucial because understanding where the water is coming from allows for effective mitigation and control measures to be implemented. If the sources of flooding can be located and addressed, it can minimize further damage and expedite the recovery process. Recognizing the pathways through which water enters an area helps to prioritize actions, such as sealing leaks, diverting water flow, or setting up additional barriers.

Identifying sources of water sets the foundation for subsequent actions, including structural assessments and the evaluation of potential hazards stemming from the flooding. While checking for fire hazards, analyzing structural damage, and evacuating personnel are all important aspects of safety and damage control, they come after establishing the primary issue of flooding. Effective flood management rests on identifying and controlling water ingress, making it the essential first step in the investigation process.