The Civil Defense Force, following an announcement issued by the Department of Meteorology, regarding heavy rains and storms that are expected to affect mainly the northern and eastern regions of the country, with effect from 10 p.m. today, January 29, 2024, until 10 p.m. of Wednesday, January 31, 2024, makes the following recommendations to the public, with the aim of prevention and proper preparation to minimize the risks and negative consequences of any heavy rainfall:
- Make sure the wells outside your home or workplace are not blocked.
- Make sure the gutters on your property are working properly.
- If you have a basement in a vulnerable area with a risk of flooding, proceed with the excavation of a special water accumulation pit and install an automatic water pump. Remove valuables or expensive equipment from your basement.
- If you live on a plot with a yard, leave – wherever possible – free soil for the earth to absorb water.
- Secure objects that are likely to be swept away by the water and moved (eg tanks, water heaters, etc.).
- Repair any openings in enclosure walls.
- Prepare sandbags to prevent water from entering your property if it is located in an area at risk of flooding.
- In the event that you are informed of the occurrence of heavy rainfall, limit your movements and avoid working and staying in underground areas.
During the flood
If you are inside a building:
- Leave underground areas and move to safe high ground.
If you are outdoors:
- Do not cross a flooded road on foot or by car / bicycle / motorcycle.
- Stop and change direction if you find yourself on a flooded road.
- Abandon your car if it is immobilized, as it may be swept away or flooded.
- Stay away from power lines.
- Do not approach areas where landslides have occurred.
After the flood
If you are outdoors:
- Stay away from areas that have flooded or are at risk of flooding in the next few hours because:
- the flood may have changed the features of familiar areas,
- pose hazards from broken pavements and dangerously sloped areas, and
- the waters may be polluted, if they have carried with them various kinds of objects or even animals.
- Do not obstruct rescue crews.
- Do not use the phone without a serious reason.
Before starting the recovery procedures:
- Remember that flood hazards do not go away immediately after the waters recede.
- Confirm with the relevant authorities that your area is safe and you can return for the restoration work.
- Turn off the power and water supply switches.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing to avoid injury.
Source: pio.gov.cy
