Let’s be safe this long Easter weekend
It’s the Easter weekend and many have already made plans how to spend it. We all want to have a safe and enjoyable Easter weekend.
While we all want to have good weather during the weekend, the Fiji Meteorological Services has alerted the nation about the impending periods of heavy rain and the public is advised that frequent heavy rain may result in flooding of low lying and flood-prone areas. We must thank the National Disaster Management Office for advising the general public to exercise caution and be alert because rainy and wet conditions are expected before and into the Easter weekend.
As a precautionary and standard disaster ready practice, members of the public should know their emergency contacts, know their nearest evacuation centre and prepare a Family Emergency Kit should the need for evacuation arise.
In the event of a flood, members of the public should take heed of the following advice:
• Refrain from walking through flood waters;
• Practice caution when travelling along hillsides or landslide-prone areas;
Parents and teachers are to ensure that infants and children do not play in flooded areas, drains, rivers, and other waterways; and
Stay informed for regular updates on all media for further alerts or advisories from authorities. Road travellers during this Easter Week are advised to exercise caution because heavy rain may cause flooding and poor visibility on our roads.
Motorists are advised to refrain from driving through flooded roads because the depth and strength of flood waters is difficult to determine.
Before travelling motorists should check tyres, brakes, suspension, lights and restraints.
Remember not everything is open over this long weekend, so make sure you have all your supplies, from spare tyres to extra oil.
Similarly, mariners, particularly those operating small fishing boats and small fibreglass boats, should heed strong wind warnings and refrain from travelling in rough seas.
While families might want to enjoy and celebrate this Easter week and holidays with loved ones, safety and preservation of lives must be prioritised. Members of the public are advised to be updated on weather updates through the radio and official social media accounts.
Many Christians worldwide celebrate Easter with special church services, music, candlelight, flowers and the ringing of church bells.
It is a day of joy and celebration to commemorate that Jesus Christ is risen, according to Christian belief. For parents this weekend will be a good time to spend quality time with your children
Be aware of their whereabouts.
Have a safe and an enjoyable Easter weekend.
A happy Easter to one and all.