"Shield Yourself: Safety Tips for a Rainy Day"

Dos:

1. Charge Your Gadgets: Always keep your phones, power banks, and other essential devices charged. Power outages are common during heavy rains.

2. Stock Up on Groceries: Buy non-perishable items like rice, lentils, and canned goods, as well as essentials like milk, vegetables, and medicines before the rains get intense.

3. Wear Waterproof Footwear: Opt for rubber sandals or shoes to avoid slipping and to protect your feet from dirty water.

4. Use Rain-Protection Gear: Carry umbrellas, raincoats, or waterproof bags to protect yourself and your belongings when you go out.

5. Ensure Proper Drainage: If you have a home, make sure the drainage system is clear to avoid water stagnation.

6. Prepare for Health Needs: Keep common cold and fever medicines ready as weather changes can lead to illness.

7. Stay Indoors if Possible: Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy downpours. Monitor weather updates regularly.

8. Check Roofs and Gutters: Make sure your roof is leak-proof and that gutters are clear, especially before the rains intensify.

Keep Emergency Contacts Ready: Maintain a list of emergency numbers like electricity board, plumbers, and medical services.

Don'ts:

1. Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Flooded streets can be dangerous, so stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.

2. Do Not Wade Through Water: Floodwater often contains sewage, dangerous debris, and sometimes electrical hazards.

3. Don’t Keep Electronics Near Water: Ensure that gadgets like mobile phones, laptops, and wires are kept in dry areas.

4. Avoid Stagnant Water: Stagnant water can breed mosquitoes, leading to diseases like dengue and malaria.

5. Don’t Ignore Health Symptoms: If you develop a cold, fever, or any unusual symptoms, visit a doctor immediately.

6. Avoid Street Food: During the rainy season, street food may become contaminated due to poor hygiene and water stagnation.

7. Don’t Use Wet Hands for Electricals: Be cautious while handling electrical switches or appliances with wet hands.

8. Don’t Leave Windows Open: Close windows to prevent rainwater from entering your home, especially during heavy winds.

Staying prepared helps you navigate through the challenges of the monsoon season safely.