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TIPS FOR THE RAINY SEASON
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced on the 1st week of June that the rainy season has begun. Although a welcome respite from the extreme heat we experienced just this summer, the rainy season somehow brings back the harrowing experiences that some
of our associates faced during the onslaught of last year’s twin lethal typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.
Heavy rains are very much associated with flashfloods, landslides, and several diseases such as respiratory tract infections, and of course common colds. This is also the season that makes exercising a challenge, since outdoor sporting activities can be limited. Truly the rainy season exposes us to several health, environment, security and safety related threats and issues.
With this in mind and in line with our company’s green initiatives and security and safety awareness program, here are some tips we can follow so that we can be able
to make this wet season healthier, greener, more secured and safer for us.
HEALTH & FITNESS
Make use of rain gears like raincoats, rain boots and umbrellas to keep away from being exposed to rain and cold weather
Do not wade in floodwaters and change wet clothing as soon as possible
Drain stagnant water such as the ones accumulating in drums, old tires, and open container that can hold water.
This may be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Avoid prolonged contact with persons whom you suspect are not feeling well.
Don’t forget to take your Vitamin C, it’s an anti oxidant and it boosts your immune system.
It is available in supplement form and of course in your favorite fruits and vegetables.
Make time for exercise. Going to the gym, performing indoor calisthenics or working out to an exercise video is equally beneficial as an outdoor run.
ENVIRONMENT
No need to activate the water sprinkler during this season. This will save you gallons of water. Install a rain barrel to catch rain and this can be used for watering
the plants, flushing and cleaning. However, don’t forget to cover it as this may be a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Manage your household garbage well and clean out garbage from water drains and gutters properly. Think of recycling and proper segregation.
We don’t want Mother Nature returning it back to us during floods.
Use eco friendly rain gears. There are those made resilient with fewer chemicals and fashionable too.
A rainy day is also a good time just to relax with your family. Go watch that Planet Earth DVD, National Geographic’s Human Foot print or other environmentally themed motion pictures.
SECURITY and SAFETY
On the Road
When you are traveling and driving, it is important that you are able to maintain your vehicle and ensure that it is ready to journey on wet roads and not so favorable driving conditions.
The following are helpful tips:
- Keep track of the weather update and research the location which you are planning to visit. This will give you a better picture on what you may be encountering
in your destination in terms of weather, visibility and road condition.
- Keep a list of emergency numbers handy. List down the local police, fire and hospital numbers of the place you are going to.
- It is good practice to maintain an emergency kit in your vehicle. Simple items in the kit could include rain gears, first aid, flashlight, maps, car chargers, and water.
- While driving in the rain you must:
- Avoid excessive brakes and sudden stops. The road is slippery so reduce speed gradually.
- In expressways, maintain a significant distance from the vehicle in front of you.
- Assess carefully the flooded portions of the road especially in unfamiliar terrain.
- Be wary of stop signs and road blockades. Legitimate checkpoints should be well lighted, manned by an officer led government trooper and with a visible government vehicle nearby.
- When visibility is really a challenge, it is best to pull over for a while. Turn on your hazard lights and wait out the downpour until visibility is sufficient.
- Be sure that your wiper blades and lights are checked and in good working condition - this enhances your visibility as well as your visibility towards
other motorists.
At Home
With last year’s experience from typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng, massive flooding has become the main threat with most households during this wet season.
If you’ve already experienced having your house flooded before, it is more likely to happen again. In view of this, the following tips may help protect our homes
from the said risk:
- Make sure that gutters and drains are free of garbage, dirt, sticks and leaves. Doing this can prevent it from clogging thereby causing it to be free from the risk
of having rain water accumulate within your premises.
- Make provisions to prepare planks and sandbags. This can be useful in reinforcing your doors and prevent floodwater from seeping at any breaks or cracks
in your doors and walls.
- Invest in a sump pump if you have experienced having flooded basements after heavy rains.
- There are countless ways we can be prepared with whatever challenges the rainy season has for us. Important is to be green and be safe this rainy season.
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