Swimming association warns emaSwati
MBABANE – Stay away from flooded rivers. The Eswatini Swimming Association ESA has issued safety guidelines to Emaswati to encourage the nation to be safe and vigilant in light of the recent heavy rains and flooding that is occurring in all regions of the country. This is according to a press statement by the association which was released yesterday afternoon. The association prescribed tips for emaSwati to stay safe during the rainy days which were outlined below:
PRE-FLOOD EVENT TIPS:
● Develop an evacuation plan. Make sure all household members know where to go in the event of a flood. Prepare an emergency kit, alteast three day’s supply of food and water, medications, a list of useful telephone numbers, whistle to signal for help, refuse bags/ plastics sheets and duct tape (to make emergency shelter), sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person, battery powered radio, matches, flashlight, first aid kit and extra batteries.
● Listen to your local radio or television station for updates. Have immunisation records handy (or know the year of your last tetanus shot).Store immunisation records and other important family documents in a waterproof container. Bring in outdoor items (lawn furniture, grills, trash cans) or tie them down securely. If evacuation appears necessary, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.
DURING FLOOD EVENT TIPS:
● Evacuate lower grounds to higher ground immediately if advised to do so. Do not walk, swim or drive through moving water. Watch for snakes in flooded areas. Use flashlights instead of candles. Be aware of potential flash flooding. Keep an eye on children and make sure they don’t play around high water or storm drains.
● Before re-entering a home damaged from a flood: turn electricity off at the fuse box until your home has adequately dried; check for gas leaks; examine your home f fire hazards; inspect the floors, doors, windows and walls for cracks or other damage to make sure the home isn’t in danger of collapsing.
● Stay away from flooded areas, even if the water seems to be receding. Do not drink flood water, or use it to wash dishes, brush teeth, or wash/prepare food. Drink clean, safe water. Throw away food that may have come in contact with floodwater or perishable food which was not refrigerated at a safe temperature. Use water from safe sources (such as bottled water) until you know that your tap water is contaminated. (Boiling, disinfecting, or distilling can purify water.)