Red Cross reminds public on safety tips during disasters

As PAGASA officially announced the onset of the rainy season on Friday, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) reminded the public on what to do during a disaster.

The Red Cross advised the public to remember the 4 P's of disaster management — Predict, Plan, Prepare and Practice — at all times, whether at home, in school, or at the workplace.

Safety precautions during disasters include:

• stay indoors and keep calm;
• monitor reports on television, radio, and social media;
• turn off electricity, gas, and water in case of flooding;
• have flashlights and radios ready with fresh and extra batteries;
• stock-up on food, water, and first aid supplies;
• avoid low-lying areas, cliffs, and foothills;
• and evacuate if necessary.

According to PAGASA's seasonal climate outlook, as many as 10 to 13 cyclones are expected to enter the  Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) from June to November.

In a news release, PRC chairman and Senator Richard Gordon issued a reminder to maintain proper health and sanitation habits to avoid contracting diseases that are commonly associated with the rainy season such as dengue fever, leptospirosis, colds, flu, and cholera, among others.

He also re-emphasized the importance of having 72-hour safety kits in case of evacuation. These should contain water, food, emergency tools, important documents and money.

Nevertheless, Gordon said all PRC chapters and response teams have been readied for the start of the rainy season.

He said the PRC has already prepositioned emergency response vehicles and alerted its Red Cross 143 volunteers on the ground regarding safety and disaster resiliency.

"Our volunteers and responders on the ground will remain on alert and ready for any eventuality that might happen," Gordon said.

“We have to be ahead of every disaster," he stressed. — Margaret Claire Layug/MDM, GMA News