Malaysia is expected to experience heavy rain this week that might cause flash floods. Flash floods can be really hazardous and even cause deaths.
So, how can we prevent those incidents from happening? Fortunately, there are flood safety tips that everyone can take in order to protect themselves from danger.
Before a flood, there are a few tips that people should take such as:
- make sure there’s a flood warning system in operation
- get frequent updates on the flood and acknowledge where the flood evacuation or relief centers are located
- make sure drains are not clogged and the septic tanks are closed
- keep stored clean water in a high place
- turn off the electricity, water valve, and gas
- bring in outdoor furniture
- move electrical appliances to a high place
- keep important documents in a sealed waterproof bag and take them with you.
But, how about during the flood? During the flood, people should:
- make sure to get frequent updates on the flood
- relocate to higher ground, and from nearby drainage such as rivers, drains, and open spaces
- make sure they are prepared with emergency supplies and evacuate quickly
- make sure children don’t play in floodwaters, and keep away children from drains, rivers, and mining pools.
People should NOT:
- go wandering aimlessly in sampans or wading through floodwaters.
- touch a fallen electrical cables
- swallow or drink floodwaters
- drive through flood area
More importantly, if asked to evacuate please do it quickly before the flood worsens. It’s ideal to evacuate during daylight for safety reasons. In addition to that, do make sure to stick to designated evacuation places. Don’t use shortcuts during evacuation as they’re dangerous.
Sources: BERNAMA