Safety tips on the road
Despite the major downpours, there have been few minor road accidents and no major floods in the city. Although there have been no major accidents, it is still important to give warnings and safety tips so people do not do foolish things. Motorists should slow down as roads can be slippery and visibility is poor. They should also switch on their headlights to be more visible to other motorists.
Pedestrians and cyclists should also be prudent and wear brightly coloured clothing so motorists can see them. Open manholes to the City Corporation as these could lead to unnecessary injuries.
Do not to attempt to rescue someone from drowning unless you are a strong swimmer, he says. If someone is being washed away, either use a stick to reach the drowning person or throw a rope to them, and pull them to safety.
Driving Tips
Make sure that you are ready with whatever Mother Nature sends your way. Here are some tips to drive safely when it starts pouring!
1. Avoid excessive use of brakes. Don’t push too hard to prevent sliding, reduce speed. Maintain three times the distance you usually would from other motorists.
2. Never drive through flooded and unfamiliar places, the water could be deeper than you think. Do not take chances, turn around and look for another route.
3. Always be alert for stop signs and things blocking the road.
4. If you feel that the heavy rain, the wet road and the glare of oncoming lights limits your vision already, pull over, turn on your hazard signal and wait until it is safe to drive again. Allow more travel time so that there is no need to rush to your destination.
5. Make it a habit to check your tire’s air pressure level. Make sure your tires have plenty of tread to avoid sliding or loss of control when driving on a slick road.
6. It is very crucial to be able to see while driving in the rain. If the blade is not functioning well already replace it with a new one.
7. Check your brake fluid as well as your emergency handbrake if functioning properly.
8. Make sure that all your lights are working. It is very important not just for you to see but also for other motorists to see you especially during heavy rain.
- By Farizaa Sabreen