Tips to tackle floodwaters

I t is not easy to handle emergencies caused by heavy showers. However, I feel the Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry has been doing a great job. Floods are among Earth’s most common, and most destructive, natural hazards. We saw the disaster adversely affecting the Indian state of Kerala taking away over 400 lives. However, adhering to safety instructions can reduce the intensity of suffering.

For instance, constructing barriers will stop floodwaters from entering home. If advised to evacuate your home, do so immediately; If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground; If possible, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor; Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.

For drivers, avoid going too fast into even quite shallow puddles as that can lead to aquaplaning, where the front tyres will no longer steer the car and you lose control. It is also inconsiderate and illegal to soak pedestrians. Two feet of flowing water can sweep away most vehicles — including large four-wheel drive cars. Don’t try driving through fast-moving water.