IT is November and some countries welcome Thanksgiving, but in Malaysia, it marks the beginning of the monsoon season. The whole country will be affected by the season with those in the peninsula’s east coast — Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang — being more likely to experience bad weather that will result in floods.
In preparation for these worrying weather patterns, it is advisable for everyone to gear up and take steps to deal with this catastrophe.
While adults feel anxious about negative consequences, some children may jump for joy in the rain and swim in the floodwaters. Little do these children know that their excitement may lead to tragedy. Hence, parents need to watch over their children, bearing in their mind that (despite being able to swim) they cannot treat floodwaters like a water park. People die from drowning every year. Thus, we should be aware of the risk so that our family members will not be swept away by strong currents.
According to news reports, Terengganu has lost three lives in the recent floods, including the death of a disabled man a few days ago. It is hoped the number will not increase.
For those living in flood-prone areas, they need to leave their house immediately during a prolonged downpour before the situation gets worse.
Road accidents are a frequent occurrence, especially during the rainy season. Some are minor mishaps while others are major tragedies. Speeding and reckless driving endanger the lives of the brash drivers and other road users alike. Everyone should realise that slippery roads may cause hydroplaning when one accelerates impatiently.
As a preventive measure, road users should avoid choosing the routes with high risk of flooding. Vehicles may be crawling on the road this season and it is unethical for us to lose our temper by honking or hurling insults at other road users, who drive slower than normal because of slippery roads. We need to practise tolerance and kindness so that all of us can reach our destinations safely.
Those who usually go out late for work may need to leave earlier to avoid traffic congestion. Even if they are late for work or an event, they still need to adhere to road safety. After all, it’s better late than never.
It is hoped that the authorities will help make things better for the public. Traffic police may need to control main roads, especially during peak hours to ensure smooth traffic. The security authorities in each state also need to monitor residents living in low-lying areas for any possibility of floods.
We have gone through a series of disasters through the year and we should all be geared up to face this one before we end 2014.
Muhamad Solahudin Ramli, Marang, Terengganu