KUCHING: In light of several major areas being inundated by flash floods recently, the Sarawak Community Policing Association (SCPA) has urged members of the community to remain safe and vigilant as well as to stay away from flooded areas wherever possible.
Its chairman Datuk Seri Victor Hii advised members of the public to stay away from riverbanks due to strong currents.
He advised motorists not to take the risk of driving through flooded roads as strong currents may push vehicles off the road and cause injury to people and damage to property.
“We would also like to remind parents not to allow their children to bathe and play in floodwaters as this pose many dangers such as the possibility of drowning, catching diseases, injuring themselves on sharp objects hidden in the waters, or getting attacked by dangerous animals,” he said in a statement on Friday (Feb 19).
He urged the public to reach out to the Civil Defence Force (APM) or Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) for assistance in moving to flood evacuation centres in their area.
“Members of the public are urged to ensure that they turn off their main electrical power at home, to minimise the risk of electrocution,” he said.
As a crime prevention advocacy group, SCPA also reminded the public to lock their premises to protect their belongings and property, in the event that they have to temporarily move to an evacuation centre.
“Last but not least, SCPA hopes that the authorities will continue to address shortages of food and clean water for flood victims,” said Hii.
