Stay safe on rainy days
Wet weather is heading our way this week, but with these safety tips in mind, you have nothing to worry about.
More rain is likely this season and the public is being urged to be extremely vigilant during the week of 20–25 February.
This warning from Netcare 911 comes on the back of the forecast weather conditions being experienced in some parts of Gauteng, including Krugersdorp.
Rainy weather normally results in inferior visibility, so the public is urged to remain alert. Flash floods may also happen. They tend to occur within six hours of very heavy downpours, and people are generally not prepared for them, so stay away from areas prone to flash floods and heavy traffic, like Luipaardsvlei.
A list of road safety tips has been provided, as follows:
– Maintain a safe following distance between vehicles
– Do not drive under the influence of drugs and/ or alcohol
– Make sure that your windshield wipers are in good condition
– Make sure your vehicle’s brakes are in a good condition
– Avoid using your mobile phone while your car is in motion
– Ensure that all headlights, tail-lights, indicators and brake lights are functional, so that other drivers can see you during heavy rains
– Turn on your headlights (even during the day)
– Make sure that your tyres, including the spare wheel, are also in good condition
– Always remember to buckle up (even when traffic officers are not around)
– Ensure that children and babies are secured in a child’s car seat
– Do not drive on roads you are not familiar with
– Only overtake when it is safe to do so
How to protect yourself and your family in the event of flash floods:
– Memorise emergency numbers, in this case 082 911
– Avoid walking or driving through flash floods
– You should immediately abandon your vehicle if you find yourself in the middle of a flash flood. Open a window and escape!
– Avoid low-lying areas, and climb to higher ground if you find yourself in the middle of a flash flood.
Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Dineo (a localised, very intense low-pressure wind system, forming over tropical oceans and with winds of hurricane force) is making its way to some parts of South Africa; however, Krugersdorpers are unlikely to be directly affected.
Remember to call 082 911 if you find yourself in need of medical assistance!
Read more here
Flash floods – What you need to know
