Disaster Management officials are on standby. This is as several days of cold and wet weather are predicted for the remainder of this week and next week. Local Government, Environmental Affairs, and Development Planning MEC Anton Bredell has urged residents to be safe during the winter season.
MEC Bredell, “We appeal to the public not to litter or dump in stormwater drains, as this will stop the water from draining away and cause even more flooding.”
Disaster Management officials are on standby
His comments follow the recent tragic drowning of a young woman at a low-level bridge in Slanghoek. He has reminded members of the public that there are safety precautions they can take to be safe during periods of inclement weather.
READ MORE: Role of the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre (WCDMC)
Several days of cold and wet weather are predicted
Officials at the Western Cape Disaster Management Centre say citizens should prepare a household emergency plan so that the family knows what to do in case of a flood.
You must assess where you live, as your home may flood if you are near a river or if there is poor drainage.
You must also assemble a Grab-and-Go Kit and keep it in a designated, easily accessible location.
“Prepare your house and property for winter by making sure that water can drain away from your house.” – MEC Bredell.
The Grab-and-Go kit should include:
- “Important documents such as IDs, passports, birth certificates, policies and clinic cards
“Cellphone recharger
“Essential medication and copies of prescriptions
“Credit cards and money
“First Aid Kit
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Trust emergency personnel
At the same time, the MEC also requested that the public trust and listen to emergency personnel when instructions are issued relating to flood prevention or during rescue operations.
He elaborated, “These men and women are trained to keep us safe, and they risk their own lives to do this.”
Western Cape Government urges residents to be safe during the winter season
MEC Bredell added that the Provincial Disaster Management Centre coordinates and supports the district disaster centres. He says each local municipality knows what is expected of them during the coming winter months to keep people safe.
He elaborated, “We can reduce these risks by giving our full cooperation and sharing a mindset of rather safe than sorry.”
Disaster Management is prepared for the upcoming winter season
The MEC says that with several days of cold and wet weather forecast for this and next week, disaster and emergency services officials will monitor this closely so that they can respond as quickly as possible where needed.
“Check your roof for leaks and ensure that gutters and drains are clear of litter and debris.” – MEC Bredell.
