Flood warning issued – be vigilant
If river bridges are covered by flooding water, turn back and use alternative routes
EKURHULENI Disaster and Emergency Services have cautioned residents to be on high alert for flash floods.
This comes after the South African Weather Services issued a warning of heavy rain in the next 24 hours around Gauteng.
As heavy rain is anticipated, rivers, canals and streams might experience high volumes of water which might result in flash floods.
William Ntladi, spokesman for the emergency services, said many children or scholars might be found wondering and be subjected to drowning as some are crossing rivers and streams on their way to their respective learning facilities.
Parents are encouraged to be on high alert and make sure their children are safe at all time.
“Low lying areas are always subjected to flooding and people are advised to take extra precautions as flash floods are prominent,” he said.
Residents are advised to take the following safety tips into account.
Avoid crossing swollen water streams, canals and flooded rivers.
Advice children not to play in flash flooded areas.
Parents should ensure that children’s routes to school are safe. If possible, parents should accompany their children, especially the little ones, to school.
Motorists should avoid flooded subways.
If trapped in flooding while in the vehicle, abandon it and climb to higher ground.
If river bridges are covered by flooding water, turn back and use alternative routes. Never drive over a bridge covered by flooding water. You do not know how deep it is or if the road has been washed away.
During the night, flooded areas are not clearly visible, be vigilant.
Those in low lying areas can excavate canals that divert floods away from homes.
Use sand bags/sacks to channel flash floods away from homes.
Residents are advised to listen to radio and watch television for warnings on the weather and to adhere to the safety tips from the officials.
In case of emergencies, call 10177, 011-458-0911 or 112. Ensure you have the emergency call centre telephone numbers saved and visible on your phone.
Speak clearly on the phone when reporting an emergency. Provide the operator with all the necessary details required. Do not end the conversation until all questions are answered.
