How to keep safe during flooding

What starts as a couple of drops of rain can very quickly turn into a very serious and life-threatening situation.

“Heavy downpours within a short space of time can cause flash flooding, while long persistent rainfall can also cause floods,” said William Ntladi from Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) in the City of Ekurhuleni.

“Flash floods are very dangerous because they happen quickly, catching everyone by surprise. Each year, more deaths occur because of flooding. Residents in low-lying areas, living next to the streams and those crossing flooded bridges, to name just a few, find themselves subjected to possible drowning that can lead to death.”

DEMS in collaboration with South African Weather Services (SAWS) remains on high alert, moreover when the weather is set to be of such a nature that can cause floods or flash floods.

In building resilience, DEMS shared the following information with residents and businesses:

• Monitor the weather reports to be ready for eventualities
• Be extra vigilant and adopt a proactive mind-set
• Understanding the dynamics and dangers relating to floods and different weather patterns can save lives
“There is a high possibility that roads and bridges can be damaged, and vehicles washed away during flooding. People are caught unaware and left stranded not knowing what to do,” said Ntladi.

DEMS urged residents to take practical steps to protect each other and to have a proper emergency plan in place.

“It is wise to remember that your life and that of your loved ones is worth more than any house or car.”

What to do during a flood:
• Draw up an evacuation plan beforehand
• Remain and stay calm, it’s important to keep your next of kin safe
• Gather emergency supplies such as food and water that can last at least three days
• Before the floods, keep listening or watching the television for updates
• Keep valuables, important papers and clothing on upper floors/safe areas. If you have only one floor, put items on upper shelves, tables or countertops
• Keep important information such as emergency numbers with you in case you need them
• If evacuation appears necessary, turn off all utilities at the power switch to limit the risk of electrical shock or causing a fire
• Stay away from downed power lines
• Be vigilant at night. It is harder to recognise potentially deadly road hazards
• Do not camp or park your car along rivers, especially during heavy rains or thunderstorms
• Avoid driving or walking through flooded areas and bridges; you don’t know the water current and damage caused, turn around, don’t drown
• Avoid contact with any floodwaters. The water may be contaminated with raw sewage, oil, broken bottles or other dangerous items, and may also be charged with electricity from fallen power lines or self-connected ground power lines in areas such as informal settlements
• Don’t drink floodwater or use it for washing dishes, brushing teeth, preparing food – drink safe clean water
• When in doubt, throw away all food that was contaminated by floodwater.

Remember:
A sudden, fast-moving flood typically occurs within a short space of time during heavy rainfall in an area, that is what dictates ‘flash floods’.
“Already thus far, there has been plenty of rain in the city and, in some instances, the ground is becoming saturated. Any persistent rainfall could lead to flooding,” said Ntladi.
In case of life-threatening emergencies, the public can call the CoE’s call centre for emergency services and disaster management interventions.
For medical and trauma emergencies, contact Gauteng Provincial Government Ambulance Services on 011 564 2210/11.
Emergency numbers are:
• Life-Threatening Ekurhuleni Emergency Line – 011 458 0911
• National Toll-Free Number – 10177 or 112 from your cell phone.

Also Read: Possible Flooding: Ekurhuleni DEMS on high alert

Also Read: WATCH: How to drive safely in floods