NEMA Advises Lagos Residents What To Do This Rainy Season To Stay Safe
Warns Against Taking Shelter Under Temporary, Makeshift Accommodation During Rainfall
Following heavy downpours usually experienced during rainy season, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has cautioned Lagos residents to always observe safety rules to mitigate impact of heavy rainfall in the state.
NEMA Coordinator, Lagos Territorial Office, Ibrahim Farinloye, who gave the advice in a chat with Newsmen on Tuesday in Lagos, urged motorists to park their vehicles and move away to safer environments during heavy rainfall.
Mr Farinloye also warned Lagos residents from taking shelter under temporary or makeshift accommodation when it rains to avoid disaster.
He further advised people living on low-level ground to move to higher ground for safety.
“Parents are enjoined not to send their children on errands during the rains.
“Follow instructions given by public safety officials.
“Be alert to changing weather conditions and be ready to move to higher ground.
“Consider postponing outdoor activities,” Mr Farinloye said.
He advised parents to tie down or bring in outdoor objects (patio furniture, children’s toys, trash cans, etc.) that could be swept away or damaged during flooding.
“Consider unplugging sensitive electronic equipment before flooding occurs. But do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
“Elevate items stored in your basement to prevent damage. If you have a sump pump, check that it is working,” Mr Farinloye said.
He, moreover, highlighted the need for residents consider clearing street catch basins to prevent or reduce street flooding.
He said motorists should avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers, creeks, or other areas prone to flooding during heavy rainfall.
“These areas can flood rapidly and with little warning,” Mr Farinloye said.
There have been reports that many parts of Lagos experienced downpour for about two consecutive days, leading to flash flooding and the destruction of roofs of some buildings.
The Nigerian Meteorological Agency had warned that about 30 states were at high risk of severe flooding this rainy season, raising nationwide concern over the country’s level of preparedness.
They are..Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra. Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, the FCT, Gombe and Imo.
Others are.. Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and Zamfara States.
