Brace yourself with these safety measures during Chennai rains

With the northeast monsoon remaining active over Tamil Nadu, the Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rains for the next two days.

Continuous rainfall has disrupted lives of people. Rainwater has accumulated at several areas on the outskirts of Chennai, while residents have to struggle through knee-deep water outside their homes. Power has also been reportedly cut in some parts of Chennai.  

Here is a list of numbers released by Tamil Nadu National Disaster Management authority may contact for relief measures:

Tamil Nadu State emergency: 044-1070

Water Logging: 044-1913

Sewage Overflow: 044-45674567, 22200335

The government has asked schools, colleges and private institutions including IT firms to remain shut.

Crowdsourced information is being compiled and a citizen can also report about serious water logging in your area in https://riskmap.in/map/chennai 

This site shows you the map of the Chennai region and shows how much water has been accumulated in a particular area. The map also shows you which roads have been blocked due to rain and which roads are safe for you to travel. 

Get the live updates here: Tamil Nadu rains LIVE UPDATES | Anna University postpones exams, relief camps set up in coastal districts

Here is a list of do's and don'ts to stay safe if a flood like situation develops in your locality:

Do's

1. Keep yourself updated with the flood news.

2. Keep all your property dry and locked up before the flood water swipes it away.

3. Sanitise the surroundings using bleaching powder or any other disinfectant.

4. If you have been using tap water for drinking or cooking, purify it using chlorine tablets before using.

5. Keep your mobile phones and power banks charged. 

6. Keep battery-operated torches along with extra batteries ready. 

7. Keep the first-aid kit ready.

8. Use mosquito nets and repellents to prevent malaria and degue. 

9. If you have pets ensure their safety. Keep them and their surroundings warm and dry. 

10. If there are warnings for evacuation, call your family, friends living in places where there are no floods. Evacuate before it is too late. 

11. Pack dry fruits and any food items that can be stored for days. 

12. Pack all your important documents and other papers in a waterproof bag. 

13. Before leaving the homes, make sure the power and the gas connection are turned off. All the switches should also be kept off and wires must be kept unplugged. 

14. Pack a few clothes that can last you for a week.

15. Discuss the seriousness of flood with each family member. 

Don'ts

1. Never drive through waterlogged roadways.

2. Do not walk in the area where water is stagnated. Avoid muddy roads.

3. Avoid drinking tap water.

4. Avoid outside food.

5. Stay away from electric poles and fallen power-lines.

6. Avoid sewage line, gutters, drains, culverts.

7. Do not play or swim in the flood water.

8. Do not leave your safe shelter until normalcy is declared.

9. Ensure your safety before you help others.