The Federal Fire Service (FFS), FCT Command, has issued a fresh flood warning to Abuja residents as heavy, persistent rainfall intensifies across the Territory.
The FCT Controller, Muhammed Anas, urged residents to stay vigilant, particularly those in low-lying communities, along riverbanks and in areas with poor drainage.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, Anas said human activities can worsen flooding and that preventing loss of lives and property requires collective responsibility from residents and relevant authorities.
Practices that worsen flooding
Anas specifically cautioned residents against dumping refuse in drains, gutters, canals and waterways, and against building on floodplains, waterways and drainage channels.
The Service also identified the following as activities that can worsen flooding:
- Blocked drainage systems
- Sand dredging and indiscriminate excavation around rivers and streams
- Erecting buildings without approved plans or adequate drainage
- Poor construction of roads and culverts that obstruct natural water flow
- Farming or construction along riverbanks and other flood-prone areas
Preventive measures
The controller called on residents to clear drains, gutters and their surroundings of refuse and debris regularly, and to avoid settling or building in low-lying or flood-prone areas. He also urged them to monitor weather forecasts and comply with flood alerts and safety directives from relevant authorities.
Safety guidelines during flooding
The FFS advised residents to:
- Avoid crossing flooded roads, bridges, streams or rivers on foot or by vehicle
- Keep children away from floodwaters, drains, rivers and open culverts
- Switch off electrical appliances and avoid contact with wires and installations exposed to water
- Stay calm and move immediately to higher ground or another safe location
- Move valuables, important documents, food supplies and other essentials to higher levels where possible
- Prioritise the evacuation of children, elderly persons and persons with disabilities
- Avoid drinking or using floodwater because of possible contamination
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as even shallow water can be dangerous
- Contact the Federal Fire Service or other emergency responders immediately
- Return home only after authorities declare the area safe
Emergency response
Anas reaffirmed the FCT Command’s commitment to responding swiftly to emergencies and protecting lives and property across the Territory. He appealed to residents to cooperate with emergency responders, obey safety instructions and promptly report flood incidents and other emergencies.
Emergency number: Federal Fire Service FCT Command, 0803 200 3557.
Follow us on:
Author
