The FCT Fire and Rescue Service, has cautioned residents against walking and driving through flooded areas to avoid being drowned.

The service’s Spokesperson, Mr. Tauheed Ibrahim, gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Sunday in Abuja.

Ibrahim said that though it was advisable to evacuate flood prone areas before and during the rains, but anyone caught in flash flooding should take refuge on higher grounds.

He added however, that it was important not to risk entering water-logged areas that seemed to have visible inches of water.

Ibrahim said the best way to avoid being a victim of flood was to adhere strictly to local and professional warnings such as weather forecast and media information.

“You must listen or watch news on meteorological signals that would provide an advance action to be taken in case of any emergency,” he added.

He further advised residents to clear debris from gutters and drainage to ensure free flow of water.

According to Ibrahim, an interactive survey with FCT residents has shown that flooding affects mostly residents who refuse to evacuate from their homes.

“But we in the service know that those material things cannot be equated to human lives.

“In areas with repetitive flooding, it is important to consider elevating the entire structure of buildings if occupants must reside there.

“Installation of water alarm will also go a long way in alerting residents in such areas when water is accumulating in their basements,” he said.

He, therefore, called on FCT residents to dial 112 or call 092906118 for professional rescuers in case of an emergency.