KUANTAN: Parents must keep a watchful eye on their children at all times and not let them play in flood areas to prevent untoward incidents.
Pahang Fire and Rescue Department director Datuk Dr Wan Mohammad Zaidi Wan Isa said children should not be allowed to play near rivers or monsoon drains as they can be swept away by the strong currents.
"Parents need to supervise their children and do not let them go into flooded areas. Continuous heavy rain will cause the river water to rise and flow rapidly.
"We advise the public including children to stay away from water activities during the Northeast Monsoon season.This will help ensure their safety and prevent any incidents," he said.
Meanwhile, Wan Mohammad Zaidi reminded the public to immediately adhere to instructions to evacuate homes during floods so that necessary arrangements can be made to safely relocate them to the nearby relief centres.
On the department's preparations in Pahang, Wan Mohammad Zaidi said 1,193 firemen involving full-time staff and volunteer firemen will be deployed in flood-prone areas.
He said in terms of logistics, 257 vehicles including four-wheel-drives, multi-purpose vehicles and boats have been placed on standby incase of any operations.