Thousands of people in Kerala have been affected by the floods triggered by torrential rain lashing the state for days. Here are a few tips that could come in handy if you are in trouble.
Those trapped by water all around should switch on their 'location' on the mobile phone and open Google map. Place your finger on your present location in the map.
You will see a red flag and a few figures on the top of the page. Those are the coordinates of your location, which would help the disaster management force and others to reach you swiftly.
Copy those numbers and paste them to send messages to those handling the situation. (Eg: 9.330692, 76.610598). This is more useful than providing your address when you are surrounded by flood waters.
Those who have been trapped can ask those who have cell phones to call 1077, along with the STD code. The call should be made from the location where you are trapped.
The revenue department can sent rescuers to your exact location if you do this.
If your building is flooded take shelter at the highest possible point. Electricity may be snapped, use your inverter or emergency power sources wisely. Remember that there is no guarantee when you may find a way out of the flooded area. Also your saved energy can be helpful to others who may need it.
Ensure your mobile phones have enough charge. Use it wisely and ensure you keep track of rescue efforts. If there are multiple phones with you or in the group along with whom you are trapped, use only one. Save the others for later.
Call 1077 or 1070, along with the STD code.
It is better to keep unused phones in airplane mode. This can save time and energy.
Rely only on official information. Do not listen to rumours and do not panic.
Avoid travelling to hilly areas from 7 pm to 7 am, considering the possibility of landslide.
Avoid beaches and rivers completely.
Water level in the rivers and streams and even flooded roads can rise with a gush of water flowing downhill. Be cautious, always carry a stick or something similar to feel the ground before you step ahead while wading through water.
If crossing waterlogged areas ensure you form a human chain or establish a rope across the water to help people cross. Always assist the weaker people; children and the aged, first.
Vehicles must not be parked beneath trees. People in hilly areas, where landslide risk is high, should remain highly alert. Do not hesitate to evacuate if officials demand it.
Only trained volunteers must undertake risky rescue operations. Avoid visiting areas that are inundated and places where landslides have occurred as you could land in trouble further straining resources.
Keep required amount of drinking water, charcoal tablets and medicines. Keep dry ready-to-eat food like energy bars or biscuits that are easy to carry and store. If you have children try to catch hold of milk in tetrapacks if shops are still open.
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