THE RAINY season is upon us. It is also the typhoon season. All local government units must ensure that timely information about the weather is relayed to the people. Every barangay should inform citizens about possible landslides, flooding and storm surges, and those in high-risk areas should be taught where to evacuate safely.
Government agencies are also reminded to carry out their respective duties in preparing for weather-related disasters.
We should all be on heightened alert. Local governments should implement forced evacuation when called for. Shelters for evacuees should be well-designed, built strong, and prepared ahead of time with emergency supplies of food, water, medicine, shelter, and toiletries.
For local disaster risk reduction and management offices, quick communication and real-time updates are vital in ensuring effective disaster response with first responders and search and rescue teams ready for dispatch anytime. Let us find ways to prevent damages to critical infrastructure such as transmission lines because electricity and communication lines are more important in the aftermath of disasters.
Most importantly, communities must heed disaster warnings to avoid accidents. When warned of an impending hazard, we should take safety measures. Stay indoors and do not attempt to go out especially at the height of typhoons to avoid accidents.
National and local action must promote disaster prevention with “zero casualty” as a mindset and approach. On the other hand, citizens must do their part by paying attention to government warnings and community advisories.
