Disaster and Emergency Management Services (DEMS) within the City of Ekurhuleni alert residents to be vigilant during potential adverse weather conditions to hit this weekend.
This follows the South African Weather Services warning of extreme weather conditions expected to affect the central and eastern portions of the country, including the City of Ekurhuleni as from today (Friday) until Sunday.
According to William Ntladi, district manager media liaison emergency services, he urges residents to call emergency services and disaster management in case of flash floods or destructive heavy down pours in their area of residence.
“Susceptible informal and formal settlements dwellers need to be on high alert as roads, low-lying bridges, furrows, water canals might be negatively affected by flash floods.”
Ntladi said DEMS is on high alert for any eventualities that might erupt as a result.
Pre-cautionary measures when encountering flooding:
- Avoid crossing rivers, swollen streams, where water is above the one`s ankles.
- If trapped in a flooding situation whilst in a vehicle, it is preferable to abandon it and climb to higher grounds.
- In buildings, move valuables to a safe place above the expected flood level. Switch electricity at the supply point to the building.
- Illegal electrical connection cables spell danger to any life as always.
- In rural areas, the safety of livestock can be assured by relocating them to a safe place on higher grounds under the shelter, preferably before the onset of inclement weather.
- Motorists, Bikers, Bus Drivers and Truckers are as well advised never to drive on a road that is flooded or obscured by water. One can`t be certain how deep the water is or if the road is eroded or washed away. If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
- Be specifically cautious during the night when it is difficult to identify flood hazards. Listening or watching the television is paramount important as warning instructions can be said by disaster management officials and advise on safety hints.
- Pedestrians to use appropriate routes to cross flooded water ways not to use pipe-lines over water streams.
Take note in times of an emergency:
- In case of emergencies, call 011 458 0911, cell phone 112, or national emergency number
- Ensure that you have the emergency call centre contact numbers readily and clearly displayed for everyone to know and to use.
- Numbers should be saved and easy to access on your telephone or cellular phone.
- Speak clearly on the phone when reporting an emergency.
- Provide the operators with all the necessary details required.
- Do not end the conversation until all questions are answered.
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