Surviving flash floods

Speaking of rain, Netcare911 has urged community members to be extra careful when ever they are driving in wet weather conditions.

Athlenda Mathe from Netcare911 said flash floods occur within six hours of heavy rains and this can find people unprepared.

Read Do’s and Don’ts at accident scene

“You will not always have a warning that these deadly, sudden floods are coming, so if you do live in areas prone to flash floods make sure you are safe,” said Mathe.

Wet weather conditions are usually associated with poor visibility.

Here are a few tips to make sure you are safe while driving:

• Make sure your windshield wipers are in a good condition.
• Ensure your tyres are in a good condition.
• Make sure all headlights, taillights, brake lights and indicators are functioning properly to ensure that other drivers can see you during heavy rains.
• Turn on your headlights.
• Maintain a safe following distance between vehicles.
• Overtake only when it is safe to do so.
• Do not drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
• Avoid using your cellphone while your car is in motion.
• Buckle up and put your seat belt on.
• Ensure that children and babies are secured in a child car seat.
• Do not drive on roads you are unfamiliar with.
• Avoid low-lying areas, immediately get to higher ground if you find yourself in the middle of a flash flood.
• Avoid walking or driving through flash floods.
• Abandon your vehicle immediately if you find yourself in the middle of a flash flood, open the window and escape.

Details: 082 911.

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