## ???? Health & Hygiene
1. *Drink Safe Water:* Consume only *boiled, filtered, or commercially bottled water*. Contaminated water is a major source of diseases like cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A, and gastroenteritis.
2. *Eat Safe Food:*
* Avoid street food, pre-cut fruits, and raw salads (risk of contamination).
* Eat freshly cooked, hot meals.
* Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water before consumption.
* Ensure food is covered and protected from flies and insects.
3. *Prevent Mosquito Breeding & Bites:*
*Eliminate Stagnant Water:* Regularly empty water from coolers, pots, tires, flower vases, etc. (mosquito breeding grounds for Dengue, Chikungunya, Malaria).
* Use Repellents:* Apply EPA-registered mosquito repellents (DEET, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus) on exposed skin.
*Wear Protective Clothing:* Long sleeves, full pants, socks in light colours.
*Use Nets:* Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets, especially if windows lack screens.
4. *Maintain Personal Hygiene:*
* Wash hands frequently with soap and clean water, especially before eating, after using the toilet, and after contact with floodwater.
* Carry hand sanitizer when clean water isn’t available.
5. *Foot Care:*
* Avoid walking barefoot in floodwater or muddy areas to prevent fungal infections (Athlete’s foot), leptospirosis, and injuries.
* Dry feet thoroughly if they get wet.
* Wear waterproof footwear (gumboots) if wading is unavoidable.
## ???? Home Safety & Maintenance
6. *Prepare Your Home:*
* Clean Drains & Gutters:* Ensure they are clear of debris to prevent waterlogging around the house.
* Check Roofs & Walls:* Repair leaks, cracks, and loose tiles before the monsoon hits.
* Trim Trees:* Cut overhanging branches near the house or power lines that could break in strong winds.
* Secure Loose Objects:* Bring in or tie down outdoor furniture, plants, etc., that could become projectiles in storms.
7. *Electrical Safety:*
* Avoid touching switches or appliances with wet hands.
* Ensure proper earthing/grounding of electrical systems.
* Unplug non-essential appliances during heavy rains/thunderstorms to prevent damage from power surges.
* Never* touch electrical poles or wires that have fallen in water or on the ground — treat all as live and dangerous.
8. *Prevent Dampness & Mold:* Use exhaust fans, dehumidifiers, or open windows (when not raining) to ventilate and reduce dampness inside the house. Clean Mold promptly.
## ???? Travel & Commuting
9. *Stay Informed:* Check weather forecasts (rain, storms, floods) and traffic updates *before* venturing out.
10. *Avoid Flooded Areas:*
* Never* walk or drive through flooded streets or flowing water. Depth and current are deceptive. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet; 12 inches can carry away a car.
* Floodwater can hide open manholes, sharp debris, downed power lines, and carry sewage/chemicals.
11. *Drive Cautiously:*
* Reduce speed significantly.
* Use headlights and wipers.
* Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
* Avoid routes prone to waterlogging or landslides.
* If your car stalls in deep water, abandon it and move to higher ground immediately.
12. *Use Public Transport Wisely:* Be aware of potential delays and cancellations. Avoid overcrowded or unsafe transport options.
13. *Be Visible:* Carry an umbrella/raincoat and wear bright/reflective clothing if walking near traffic in poor visibility.
## ???? Emergency Preparedness
14. *Assemble an Emergency Kit:*
* First-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, essential medicines, ORS packets).
* Flashlights with extra batteries (candles are a fire hazard).
* Portable phone charger/power bank.
* Non-perishable food and bottled water (enough for at least 3 days).
* Important documents (IDs, insurance) in waterproof bags.
* Basic tools, whistle, multi-tool.
* Cash (ATMs may not work).
15. *Know Your Evacuation Route:* Identify the safest and quickest way to reach higher ground or a designated shelter if flooding occurs near your home.
16. *Stay Connected:* Keep phones charged. Have a list of emergency contacts readily available (family, local authorities, hospitals, disaster helplines). Inform family of your whereabouts during travel.
17. *Follow Official Instructions:* Pay attention to warnings and evacuation orders from local authorities, meteorological departments, and disaster management agencies.
## Additional Considerations
* Protect Vulnerable Groups:* Take extra care of children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
* Pet Safety:* Ensure pets have shelter, access to clean water, and are safe from flooding. Keep their vaccinations up-to-date.
* Mental Well-being:* Being confined or dealing with disruptions can be stressful. Maintain routines where possible and seek support if needed.
*Key Mantra:* *”Prevention is Better Than Cure.”* Taking proactive steps before and during the monsoon significantly reduces risks. Stay alert, stay informed, and prioritize safety! ????️⛑️
