Public urged to take precautions ahead of storms
The Civil Defence Force has issued recommendations to the public following a weather warning by the Meteorological Department regarding isolated strong thunderstorms expected to affect mountainous, inland, and eastern areas.
Flood self-protection measures
• Ensure drains outside your home or workplace are not blocked.
• Ensure gutters on your property are functioning properly.
• If you have a basement in a flood-prone area, consider installing a water collection pit and automatic water pump. Remove valuables or expensive equipment from the basement.
• If you live in a property with a yard, leave exposed soil where possible to help absorb water.
• Secure objects that could be carried away by floodwater, such as water tanks and solar heaters.
• Repair any openings in boundary walls.
• Prepare sandbags to prevent water entering properties located in flood-prone areas.
• If heavy rainfall is expected, limit unnecessary travel and avoid staying or working in underground areas.
During a flood
If inside a building:
• Leave basement areas and move to a safe elevated location.
If outdoors:
• Do not cross flooded roads on foot or by car, bicycle or motorcycle.
• Stop and change direction if you encounter a flooded road.
• Abandon your vehicle if it becomes immobilised, as it may be swept away or flooded.
• Stay away from power lines.
• Avoid areas where landslides have occurred.
After a flood
If outdoors:
- • Stay away from flooded areas or areas at risk of flooding in the coming hours, as:
- floodwaters may have altered familiar terrain,
- damaged roads and unstable ground may pose risks,
- water may be contaminated after carrying debris or animals.
• Do not obstruct rescue crews.
• Avoid unnecessary telephone use.
Before starting clean-up operations:
• Be aware that flood dangers do not disappear immediately after waters recede.
• Confirm with the relevant authorities that your area is safe before returning.
• Turn off electricity and water supplies.
• Wear closed shoes and suitable clothing to avoid injuries.
Tornado self-protection measures
If at home:
• Remove objects from yards that could be displaced by tornadoes and secure those that cannot be moved.
• Close doors and windows, while leaving interior glass shutters open to help equalise air pressure.
• Stay away from movable objects and glass that may shatter.
If outdoors:
• If possible, monitor the tornado’s path and move away from affected areas as quickly as possible.
• If unable to escape in time, lie face down in a ditch or depression if available and protect your head with your hands to avoid injury from flying debris or uprooted trees.
Strong wind safety measures
Before and during strong winds:
• Exercise caution in areas affected by strong winds, avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors and keep doors and windows closed.
• Remove unsecured outdoor objects such as flower pots, tables, chairs and decorations, and avoid activities that could cause fires.
• Secure advertising signs installed on your property.
• Avoid walking beneath large trees, signs or balconies and secure objects that may be blown away, including signs, water tanks and solar heaters.
• Employers are advised to take all necessary measures to protect outdoor workers, including temporarily suspending work at construction sites where necessary.
Also read: Rain and storms ahead – Yellow warning takes effect
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