Flash floods and wet roads – Tips

The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has warned that more wet weather lies ahead and the possibility of flash floods and weather-related accidents is strong.

Netcare 911 is urging members of the public to be extra careful while driving in the wet weather conditions being experienced in many parts of our country.

Wet weather is usually associated with poor visibility so here are a few tips to make sure you are safe:

• Make sure your windscreen wipers are in a good condition.

• Ensure that your tyres are in a good condition.

• Make sure all headlights, tail-lights, brake lights and indicators are properly functioning to ensure that other drivers can see you during heavy rains.

• Turn on your headlights.

• Slow down (reduce speed).

• Maintain a safe following distance between vehicles.

• Overtake only when it is safe to do so.

• Do not drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

• Do not use your phone while your car is in motion.

• Most importantly, buckle up.

• Ensure that children/ babies are secured in a car child seat.

• Do not drive on roads you are unfamiliar with.

Flash floods occur within six hours of heavy rains and this can find people unprepared. Motorists do not always know that these deadly, sudden floods are coming. So if you do live in areas prone to flash floods, make sure you are safe.

Below are a few tips to protect yourself and your family in the event of flash flooding.

1. Always memorise emergency numbers, in this case 082 911.

2. Avoid low-lying areas. Move to higher ground if you find yourself in the middle of a flash flood.

3. Do not walk or drive through flash floods.

4. If you find yourself in the middle of a flash flood, open the vehicle window and escape! Abandon your vehicle immediately.

Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.

For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Randfontein Herald, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine

Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!