TAIPING: The Civil Defence Force (APM) is preparing for the eventuality of floods during the current northeast monsoon, with evacuation centres following strict Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOP).
APM chief commissioner Datuk Roslan Wahab said APM had prepared enough assets and manpower to face the impending monsoon season, which may cause massive floods in several states in the country.
"All APM state directors had been directed to keep tabs on the latest development of the flood situation in the country.
"In term of assets, we have more than 900 boats of various sizes, enough lorries and other assets which are all ready to be deployed at any time.
"Drones will also be used to monitor the flood situation as well as the search and rescue mission (SAR) during the flood or any eventuality."
Roslan speaking to reporters after attending a briefing on the flood situation in Perak at the state APM Headquarters here today.
Earlier, the number of flood victims taking shelter at temporary evacuation centres (PPS) in the state rose to 246 as of 10am today, compared to 168 yesterday.
To date, four evacuation shelters were opened after homes in three districts were inundated with floodwaters since Thursday.
Roslan said temperature checks would be conducted at the evacuation centre and anyone with symptoms would be referred to the health authorities for further action.
"We will also set partitions for families at least one metre apart based on the capacity of the evacuation centre."
Roslan said should the APM officers need to transport a patient under investigation (PUI) via boat or any mode of transportation, they would need to wear a full set of personal protective equipment (PPE).
"Flood victims who will be transported to evacuation centres via boat and other vehicle are also required to wear face masks and face shields.
"Meals will be provided by the respective state Welfare Department and District Offices. Cooking is not allowed at the evacuation centres," he said.
It was reported that the annual monsoon season in the country was expected to end in March next year.
In a statement, Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) said there was a risk of flooding getting worse if heavy downpour coincided with the high tide phenomenon and storms.