Emergency services on High Alert

Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (EMS) has been alert since the recent rain showers and sends warning to residents and urged them to be careful during the ruthless disruptive rainfall.

The SA weather service also sent a warning about possible floods of informal settlements and low-lying bridges while the rain falls unabated. Sowetan spoke with Robert Mulaudzi of EMS about the readiness of the city, risky areas and essential safety tips for residents.

Sowetan: How did the recent heavy downpour influence the emergency activities of EMS, especially for the Aquatic Rescue team?

Mulaudzi: So far we have been lucky that no major incidents have been reported that required the evacuation of residents. While we keep following the situation closely, our emergency teams remain alert.

Sowetan: What are the biggest challenges that your team is confronted with when responding to flood incidents, and how do you enter into them?

Mulaudzi: Primary care is informal settlements, because these areas are often near river flows and floodplains, making them very vulnerable during severe thunderstorms. Residents in these areas run a higher risk of being affected by floods.

Sowetan: How well equipped is EMS to deal with continuous or deteriorating weather conditions? Are there shortages of sources?

Mulaudzi: We have no shortages in the field of equipment and resources for our aquatic rescue unit. Our teams are well prepared for flood -related emergency situations.

Sowetan: What advice would you give residents to minimize risks during extreme weather, especially in flood -sensitive areas?

Mulaudzi: Motorists must be careful while driving by extending their next distance and avoiding flooded roads or low -lying bridges. Residents in low -lying areas must prevent river flows from crossing during their daily activities.

The most important thing is that people have to avoid building houses in flood -sensitive areas because they can be wiped out during serious thunderstorms. EMS continues to follow the weather conditions and urges residents to follow safety guidelines to prevent potential disasters.

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