POKOK SENA: The Kedah Fire and Rescue Department is asking flood victims to evacuate for temporary relief centres as soon as water levels rise.
Department assistant director (Rescue Operations Division) Wan Mohd Hamizi Wan Mohd Zin today said poor visibility made it hard to conduct night rescues in flooded areas, especially when drains and ditches were submerged.
He said that during the recent Baling floods, his team had struggled to reach distant homes, having to cross overflowing rivers to evacuate people.
"Handling a rescue boat at night requires skill and experience.
"If possible, evacuate during daylight hours, as this will ensure the safety of victims and rescue personnel."
He said this during a monitoring session in Derang, Pokok Sena.
Wan Mohd Hamizi said although most residents had evacuated during the recent floods, some still resisted.
"This is makes our jobs harder, and we are forced to explain the situation to them to get them to leave."