## ???? 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! ????️⛑️