Monsoon preparedness

Tips for monsoon preparedness

Be aware

• Be aware of the weather warnings issued by the government through authentic channels like IMD website, All India Radio, Doordarshan, etc.
  Pass on the information to others.
• Ignore rumours and do not spread them; this will help to avoid panic situations.
• Keep emergency numbers on speed dial.

Act 

• Trim branches hanging over your roof
• Get extra food, which can be eaten without cooking. Store extra drinking water in suitably covered vessels. Make provision for children and adults requiring special diets.
• Drink only filtered and boiled water during monsoon. If possible use a chlorine tablet to make water germ-free.
• Have hurricane lantern, torches or other emergency lights in working conditions and keep them handy.
• Keep first aid and related medication ready for immediate use. 
• Store up your valuables in safe places to minize damage. 
• If you stay close to the coast, be aware of cyclone warnings issued by the local officials. When a warning is issued, get away from low-lying beaches or other low-lying areas close to the coast. Leave early before your way to high ground or shelter gets flooded
• If your house is securely built on high ground take shelter in the safer part of the house. However, if asked to evacuate do not hesitate to leave the place.
• Board up glass windows or put storm shutters in place. If you do not have wooden boards handy, paste paper strips on glasses to prevent splinters. However, this may not avoid breaking windows.
• Provide strong suitable support for outside doors.
• Small and loose things, which can fly in strong winds, should be stored safely in a room.
• Be sure that a window and door can be opened only on the side opposite to the one facing the wind.
• Switch off electrical mains in your house during heavy winds and rains.
• Don’t take Shelter near tree & electric line

Emergency kit - monsoon preparedness

Food safety during monsoon

Tips to prevent monsoon illness

• Watch Out For Water Contaminated Sources - Drink only filtered and boiled water during monsoon. If possible use a chlorine tablet to make water germ-free.
• Most of the monsoon related illnesses are common such as cold & cough, viral fever, sore throat, etc., and are easily preventable and curable. There is no need to panic!
• Eat Fresh Home-Cooked Food - Home cook during monsoons, and eat foods that boost your immunity. Avoid eating food from outside during the rainy season. It is likely to have stayed in an unhygienic environment.
• Keep Your Immunity UP - Follow immunity boosting measures of AYSUH; eat fresh & good food, exercise and stay cheerful. This will go a long way in keeping your immunity intact and protect you from monsoon related common illnesses.
• Maintain Proper Hygiene - Make sure you wash your hands before & after your meals, after sneezing, coughing, petting, gardening, using the washroom etc. Also, don't pick your wounds or cuts to avoid spread of bacteria.
• Stay Hydrated - Keeping yourself well hydrated is an evergreen health tip. It will make you feel healthy and prevent onset of diseases. Along with aiding weight loss, staying hydrated can help in fighting germs and infections.
• Watch Out For Water Contaminated Sources - Drink only filtered and boiled water during monsoon. If possible use a chlorine tablet to make water germ-free.

Tips for control of vector borne diseases

An effective vector management is needed to prevent vector-borne disease outbreaks during the monsoon season.

• An Integrated Vector Management (IVM) is needed to check the vector control.
• Inspect overhead/underground water tanks, refrigerators, water coolers, water fountains, flowerpots, AC plants, animal water points, open drains, and similar water collection points for potential mosquito larval habitats.
• Check rooftops, terraces, and sunshades for clogged drains due to tree debris and other blockages.
• Store scrap items such as metal scraps, safety helmets, sanitary flush tanks, troughs, fiberglass containers, buckets, barrels, and drums upside down until its appropriate disposal.
• Cover overhead tanks overflow pipes, air vents, and sanitary pipes with muslin cloth.
• Ensure environmental sanitation measures, including waste removal, proper placement of garbage bins with covers, and regular clearance.
• Instal window and door screens, air curtains, covering air vents, exhaust fans, etc., to prevent the entry of adult vectors inside the building
• Use of Personal protective measures such as applying repellents to exposed skin or clothing, and wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants.

Road safety tips during monsoon

• Ensure mandatory check for vehicles-brake system, head lights, indicators, wipers and horn in good working condition
• Ensure that the tyres have sufficient tread
• Always use safety gadgets like Helmet or Seat-belt while driving
• Replace old or brittle wipers
• Ensure that defogging, dermisting mechanisms and fog lamps are in working condition for vehicle plying in hilly areas
• Slow down the vehicle. It takes longer to stop in wet condition
• Do not tail the vehicle in front of you. Keep safe distance.
• Never follow trucks or buses too closely. They splash water that obstructs your vision
• Turn headlights on, even in light rain or foggy conditions
• Never drive beyond the limits of visibility
• If possible, stay off the road during thunderstorms or lightening
• Always check weather report thru radio/ news bulletin before you drive
• Make sure that you have enough Fuel in your fuel tank
• Avoid riding or driving during a heavy downpour.
• Avoid over speeding and over taking in the rain
• Be a Good Samaritan. In case, you witness an accident on the road, make sure you help the victim.
• Beware of hydroplaning - vehicle loose traction and fly-off in wet roads
• Always carry protective shields umbrella, rain coat, helmet with wiser
• Better to drive slow and stay safe, than be in a hurry and sorry.

Sources 

1. National Disaster Management Authority
2. Kerala Police