Exercise caution during floods, warns metro
Following the consistent downpour experienced across the City of Ekurhuleni since this week, coupled with the expectation of more rain continuing until tomorrow, the City`s Disaster and Emergency Management Services department (DEMS) would like to ensure that residents and business communities are extra cautious of floods in low-lying areas of the metro.
According to DEMS, the ground is becoming saturated and subsequent to that, any small amount of rain to fall has the possibility to cause flooding, which might impact negatively to the motorists and residents in the low-lying areas.
DEMS, in collaboration with South African Weather Services (SAWS), would like to caution residents, drivers and communities to be on high alert throughout this period. Pedestrians should avoid crossing low-lying bridges and swollen streams where water is above ankle height.
Parents are urged to keep a close eye on their children, especially when they cross water streams. Children experiment and might not take the right decision when faced with flooded areas. In such cases, drowning is a possibility and lives could be lost.
Motorists are urged to be careful as well when approaching low-lying bridges or where the road surface is submerged. You do not know how deep it is or if the road has been washed away, so please do not cross and use alternative roads.
No vehicle can overcome strong water currents and as a result, drowning can occur. It is advisable to listen to the radio or watch on television for warnings and obey instructions from DEMS officials.
DEMS is on high alert for any eventualities that might occur as a result. Communities affected by flooding or any life-threatening emergencies are advised to call the Emergency Call Centre immediately for swift intervention from the fire, emergency and rescue services.
NOTE:
• In case of emergencies, call our direct line: (011) 458 0911, cellphone 112, or national emergency number 10177.
• Ensure that you have the emergency call centre contact numbers ready and clearly displayed for everyone to know and use.
• Speak clearly on the phone when reporting an emergency.
• Provide the operators with all the necessary details.
• Do not end the conversation until all questions are answered
