ZIMBABWE has been experiencing heavy rainfall and flash flooding in recent days, posing a significant threat to students who walk to and from school or commute using public transport.
As a concerned community, it’s essential that we take proactive measures to ensure the safety of our children during this challenging time.
Before leaving for school
- Check the weather forecast: Parents and guardians should check the weather forecast before sending their children to school.
If there is a high chance of heavy rainfall or flash flooding, consider alternative arrangements, such as keeping them home or making arrangements for a safer commute.
- Plan a safe route: Identify safe routes to and from school, avoiding areas prone to flooding.
Encourage your child to stick to these routes and avoid taking shortcuts or using unfamiliar paths.
If you’ve got an online group as parents/guardians update others of safer routes as well as getting updates from them.
- Dress for the weather: Ensure your child dresses in clothing and footwear that’s suitable for wet and slippery conditions.
Avoid open-toed shoes or sandals, and opt for waterproof jackets or ponchos instead.
While commuting
- Rainy days, safe ways!
Keep Reading
- Be aware of your surroundings: Encourage your child to be mindful of their surroundings, watching out for signs of flooding, such as rising water levels, overflowing drains or fallen trees.
- Avoid walking or playing in floodwater: Floodwater can be contaminated with sewage, chemicals and other hazards.
Besides health hazards, there’s a danger of drowning or getting washed away as well.
Teach your child to avoid walking or playing in floodwater and to report any flooded areas to their teacher or school administration.
- Use designated crossing points: When crossing roads, encourage your child to use designated crossing points, such as pedestrian bridges or traffic lights.
Avoid crossing flooded roads or streams, as the water may be deeper or faster-moving than it appears.
What to do in case of an emergency
- Stay calm: In the event of an emergency, such as being swept away by floodwater or getting trapped, teach your child to stay calm and think clearly.
- Seek higher ground: If your child is in a flooded area, advise them to seek higher ground immediately. This could be a nearby building, a tree, or a raised area.
- Call for help: If your child has access to a phone, teach them to call for help, such as contacting a parent, guardian, teacher, school authority, neighbour or emergency services at last since in Zimbabwe such services tend to be slower in reaction.
Parental involvement
- Communicate with the school: Keep the school informed about any concerns or issues related to your child’s safety during floods.
- Establish a communication plan: Make sure your child knows how to contact you or another trusted adult in case of an emergency.
- Stay informed: Stay up-to-date with the latest weather forecasts and flood warnings, and adjust your child's commute accordingly.
