Nisarga Cyclone - Dos And Don¡¯ts For Citizens

Cyclone Nisarga, is the first storm to hit Mumbai after a century, is heading towards Gujarat coasts and is expected to make a landfall in Alibaug which is about 100 km from Mumbai. The IMD department said that the Nisarga intensified into a ¡°severe cyclonic storm¡± this morning.

AFP

Mumbai is currently the worst hit by the coronavirus pandemic with more than 41,000 cases so far. The suburbs and the neighbouring districts are on high alert.

The civic body of Mumbai - Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation - BMC has released a list of dos and don¡¯ts for citizens.

What you should do - the precautions

AFP

1. The loose things which you may have kept outside should be tied or moved indoors.

2. Seal important documents and jewellery in a bag of plastic.

3. Check regularly for battery-operated things and the reserve powers systems as well.

4. Pay attention to all the instructions given on TV and radio

5. Practice the actions which are needed in case of emergencies.

6. If you do not live in a non-brick house, mud house or hut, choose a part of the house as an emergency spot and practice how members of the house will use it while the cyclone is there.

7. Get ready with an emergency kit.

8. Close some windows and stay away from them. By closing some windows and opening some the pressure of air will be maintained.

9. Stay away from the corners of the house, be in the centre.

10. Hide under strong furniture like a table or desk and hold on to it.

11. Use your hands wisely to protect your head and neck .

12. Avoid large roof spaces which are shopping malls and auditoriums.

13. If you are in an open space and you have some time, find the right shelter in the nearest pit or pasture.

14. Relocate yourself to an administrative or predetermined location for safety.

15. Disconnect power supply of non-essential or non emergency supplies.

16. Store drinking water in a clean place.

17. Help the people who are trapped or injured, give first aid if needed.

18. Check any leakage, if you smell gas or hear a leaking sound, the first thing is to open the windows and evacuate the place. If possible, turn off the gas valve.

19. Check on the electrical supplies. If you notice any sparks or exposed wires or any burning smell of rubber, immediately disconnect the main power supply and call the electrician.

20. Help those who are differently - abled, elderly and children in need.

What you don¡¯t have to do

1. Don¡¯t believe in rumours and don¡¯t spread it.

2. Do not drive or ride any vehicle during the time of cyclones.

3. Stay away from damaged buildings and houses.

4. Do not try to move injured people unless it is absolutely needed and safe to do so. It may affect the person more.

5. Do not let any oil or other flammable liquids spill. Clean it immediately.

Indiatimes urges all its readers in the region to exercise caution.