Save the Children Highlights Five Key Measures for Flood Response, Stresses That Children’s Safety Must Come First

Bangkok 26 September 2026

Save the Children Thailand has expressed concern over the flooding currently affecting communities across several parts of the country, including waterlogging in Bangkok. According to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, as of 7:00 a.m. on 26 September 2026, flooding remained ongoing in 21 provinces, covering 93 districts, 350 subdistricts, and 1,425 villages. A total of 27,109 households, or 84,605 people, had been affected. In Bangkok, floodwater also remained on roads in several locations.

The situation is affecting children, families, and communities, particularly young children, children with disabilities, and children in vulnerable situations. They may face risks including drowning, accidents, electrocution, waterborne diseases, separation from their families, emotional distress, and disruption to their education.

As water levels and conditions remain uncertain in many areas, Save the Children recommends five key measures for parents and caregivers:

1. Closely supervise children and follow evacuation guidance

Children should remain in safe areas under adult supervision at all times. They should not be allowed to walk or play in floodwater, even when it appears shallow or slow-moving, as water levels and currents can change rapidly. If the home or surrounding area becomes unsafe, or if an evacuation order is issued, caregivers should move children out of the area immediately and follow the instructions of the authorities.

2. Be alert to drowning, accidents, and electrical hazards

Floodwater may conceal holes, pits, drains, open manholes, and other underwater obstacles. Parents and caregivers should never leave children unattended near flooded areas. If floodwater approaches electrical outlets or appliances, do not touch electrical equipment while standing in water. Electricity should be switched off from a dry and safe location, or assistance should be requested from the relevant authorities. Children should also be kept away from utility poles, electrical wires, and any electrical equipment that has been exposed to water.

3. Watch out for reptiles and venomous animals

Rising water levels may force snakes, centipedes, scorpions, and other venomous animals to seek shelter inside homes. Bathrooms, shoes, clothing, bedding, and dark or concealed areas should be checked before children are allowed nearby or permitted to use them. If a venomous animal is found, move children away, avoid attempting to catch or drive it away yourself, and contact the relevant authorities for assistance.

4. Prepare an emergency bag for children and the family

Prepare clean drinking water, ready-to-eat food, milk and age-appropriate food for children, regular medication, a first-aid kit, nappies, clothing, a torch, a mobile phone and power bank, and important documents. These items should be packed in a waterproof bag and kept somewhere easily accessible in case evacuation becomes necessary. Children should also carry information stating their name, their parent’s or caregiver’s contact details, and any essential health information. This can help reduce risks and facilitate reunification if they become separated from their family.

5. Follow information from reliable sources and support children’s emotional well-being

Parents and caregivers should verify information with government agencies and trusted news sources before sharing or acting on it, particularly information about water levels, evacuation routes, and the locations of temporary shelters. The situation should be explained to children using age-appropriate language. Adults should listen to children’s feelings and avoid repeatedly exposing them to images or news coverage that may cause fear or distress.

Guillaume Rachou, Executive Director of Save the Children Thailand, said:

“Lessons from past floods show that children’s safety and needs must be at the heart of every stage of flood response. The risks children face go beyond drowning and include separation from their families, electrocution, accidents, waterborne diseases, and the emotional impact of being displaced from their homes or having their education disrupted.

“Shelters and humanitarian assistance must therefore be safe and appropriate for children, helping them stay with their families, access food, clean water, sanitation, and psychosocial support, and return to learning as soon as possible. Adults and all relevant agencies must listen to children’s needs and protect both their physical safety and emotional well-being.”

Save the Children Thailand is currently monitoring the situation and coordinating closely with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, local authorities, and relevant partners to assess the impact and urgent needs of children and families. Particular attention is being given to densely populated urban communities, low-income families, and groups that may face barriers to evacuation or accessing assistance.

Save the Children has emergency supplies stored at its warehouse in Mae Sot district, Tak province, ready to be transported to areas where they are needed. These supplies include 500 children’s kits, 590 baby kits, and 200 personal hygiene kits. The mobilisation and distribution of these supplies will be based on assessments of urgent needs and gaps in assistance, as well as safety, access to affected areas, and coordination with government agencies and other responding organisations. This will help ensure that assistance meets the needs of children and families and does not duplicate existing support.

If the flooding becomes more widespread or prolonged, the available supplies may not be sufficient to meet the needs of all affected children and families. Save the Children therefore invites individuals, businesses, and all sectors of society to support its emergency assistance for children through Save the Children Thailand’s official channels.

Every contribution will help the organisation deliver essential assistance and reach affected children in a timely manner.

Join in supporting at www.savethechildren.or.th/donate

----

Save the Children has organisation representatives ready to give interviews about the impact of the floods on children and the organisation's response to the situation. Interested media can contact to request interviews at:

Sammy, Brand and Media Coordinator

 Tel: 095 862 5252

 LINE ID: whitelotus444