Tips to avoid risks during heavy rains and flash floods

As the summer rains become more frequent so will the chances of heavy rains and flash floods. ER24 have cautioned people to take care of themselves during these dangerous conditions.

A flash flood is a rapid flooding of a low-lying area which can be caused by severe thunderstorms, hurricane or even a tropical storm.

They are different from regular floods as they occur on a time scale of less than six hours.

They are therefore difficult to predict and give warnings of. If you live in low-lying areas, you need to plan accordingly to protect your family and property so that the damages and losses are minimal.

ER24 has provided tips as an awareness and as a precautionary measure. They urge all the members of the public to keep these in mind during heavy rains and flash floods:

• Keep an eye out for weather warnings. Only trust verified and credible sources. Do not immediately believe messages circulating on social media as these cause unnecessary panicking.
• If you are caught in a heavy storm, try and find cover. Avoid being in open spaces or near large trees as the chances of getting struck by lightning will increase.
• Visibility will be decreased during heavy rains and this will affect your ability to see other vehicles on the road as well as pedestrians. Increase your following distance and decrease your speed.
• Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and your windscreen wipers are in perfect condition.
• Should you decide to stop your journey rather stop at a filling station or covered area. Avoid stopping on the side of the road/highway or under bridges.
• Do not attempt to cross the road or surface of flooded areas. Seek an alternative route.
• If you are trapped in your vehicle during a flash flood, rather abandon your vehicle to try and get to higher ground.
• If you get swept away while in the flood waters, try to grab onto anything you can to pull yourself to safety.
• If flooding occurs at your home, ensure that all your electrical devices are switched off at the main distribution board.
• Have a first aid kit nearby and keep emergency numbers at hand.

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