Western Cape braces for more inclement weather

LOCAL Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC Anton Bredell says the drowning of a young woman at a low-level bridge in Slanghoek should remind the public of the safety precautions they need to heed during inclement weather.

The province is bracing for several days of cold and wet weather for the remainder of this week as well as next week.

Bredell confirmed that they were ready to respond to any emergencies resulting from the inclement weather. 

“The Provincial Disaster Management Centre coordinates and supports the district disaster centres, and each local municipality in the province knows what is expected during the coming winter months to keep people safe. Several days of cold and wet weather is predicted for the remainder of this week as well as next week, and our disaster and emergency services will monitor this closely in order that we can respond as quickly as possible where needed,” said Bredell.

He urged the public to trust and listen to emergency personnel when instructions are issued relating to flood prevention or during rescue operations. 

“These men and women are trained to keep us safe, and they risk their own lives to do this. We can reduce these risks by giving our full cooperation and sharing a mindset of rather safe than sorry.”

The provincial Disaster Management Centre advised the public to prepare a household emergency plan for the family members  to know  what to do in case of a flood. This includes assessing where you live, as homes near a river may flood, especially if there is poor drainage. 

“Prepare your house and property for winter by making sure that water can drain away from your house, check your roof for leaks and ensure that gutters and drains are clear of litter and debris. We appeal to the public not to litter or dump in stormwater drains, as this will stop the water from draining away and cause even more flooding,” Bredell said.