Landslides, flooding predicted across Guyana – CDC

…conducts rapid assessments of flood-impacted communities

The Civil Defence Commission on Tuesday conducted rapid assessments in some high-risk communities throughout Georgetown, which would have been impacted by heavy rainfalls the previous day.

In a statement, the Commission said it is working closely with the Georgetown municipality to bring relief to the residents in the most affected communities. However, they have predicted possible landslides and flooding across the country.
“Based on the projected forecast, all regions across the country are expected to experience severe rainfalls which may result in flooding and possible landslides in hilly areas. To ensure the citizens are safe, the CDC is networking with the regional officials to monitor the impact of the weather conditions over the next few days,” the CDC noted.

For precautionary measures, the Commission has urged the public to take precautions to protect their homes and families. These include placing sandbags where needed, unplugging all electrical items which may come into contact with floodwaters, elevating all household furniture and appliances, relocating livestock and using purification tablets.
The Commission also reminded persons to adhere to the COVID-19 precautions. If the need to render assistance arises, stakeholders were asked to wear a mask correctly and sanitise after rendering aid.

Precautions
Meanwhile, the Public Health Ministry also sent out warnings to the public, as the possibility of flooding rises. Health authorities have asked persons to pay special attention to health, special precautions, personal hygiene, vector control, food and water safety.
Persons living in flood-prone areas should stay out of contact with the water as much as possible, to reduce the risk of contracting an infection. Direct exposure can expose individuals to several germs.
“If you are living in flood-prone areas and there is any flooding, stay out of the water as much as possible, as it can greatly reduce your chances of contracting diseases such as skin infections, leptospirosis, diarrhoea and other water-borne diseases…Keep children out of the water as they are most at risk of contracting diseases. Avoid swimming in flooded canals and trenches. During the rainy season and floods, these become contaminated and can make you sick.”
It is said that during the rainy season, respiratory infections including COVID-19 can occur and may become worse. Daily intake of fruits and vegetables high in Vitamin C can help to maintain a healthy immune system and enhance the ability to fight infection. If the event arises where a person must go out into the dirty waters, there are steps which should be followed to protect themselves.
The Ministry said, “If you must venture into any area with floodwaters, use protective gear such as long boots, gloves and eye protection. Prepare a foot bath of half cup of bleach to one bucket of water and wash your feet before entering the house. Apply Vaseline or oil to your skin as it forms a barrier and provides some protection from the dirty water.”
Meanwhile, stagnant water is a popular breeding ground for mosquitoes. Persons can protect themselves by sleeping under mosquito nets, use mosquito repellents and coils.
“Ensure that all water stored around your homes in containers is covered to reduce the breeding of mosquitoes. Remember, the mosquito that spreads Zika, dengue and chikungunya virus breeds in fresh still water (especially rainwater) around your home,” it was advised.
Meanwhile, clean water should be used for cooking, drinking and other hygiene practices. Water can be treated by boiling or using bleach. Fruits and vegetables must always be washed before cooking or consuming.
“Keep food supplies away from contact with any flood water. Flood water can contaminate food supplies including dry groceries, vegetables, fruits, cooked foods and beverages. Discard all foods that have been in contact with floodwaters safely by placing in a plastic bag and deposit in covered bins.”
To protect against electrical shocks, the main electrical switch should be turned off and all appliances are to be turned off if a house is under water. If there are any suspicions that the electrical wiring might have been damaged, the main should be turned off and checked by a professional.
If anyone experiences any fever, coughing, vomiting, diarrhoea, skin rash, cuts, bruises or other conditions, they are asked to seek medical attention immediately or call the national or regional hotlines.