KUANTAN: Residents in flood-prone areas here have been cautioned not to turn the flood disaster into a water festival and remain alert to changes in the uncertain weather pattern.
Kuantan police chief Assistant Commissioner Wan Mohd Zahari Wan Busu reminded those living near rivers and water channels that the floods are not a water festival or time to have fun.
"Children should not be allowed to play in floods even if the water is shallow as they face a high risk of being swept away by the currents," he said.
"Always monitor children and do not allow them to play in the floods, near rivers or drainages."
Floods are a common annual phenomenon on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia, occurring during the monsoon season from October to March.
Wan Mohd Zahari said families with elderly or ailing family members should not wait until the last minute to evacuate them.
Uncertain weather conditions and continuous rain can cause rivers to overflow and trigger floods without any warning, he said.
Wan Mohd Zahari said residents in in low-lying areas and exposed to the risk of being hit by floods should take the threat posed by floods seriously.
"They must prioritise safety during floods and be aware of sudden weather changes," he wrote on the Polis Kuantan Facebook page today.
Wan Mohd Zahari also said during flooding all electrical switches and the main switch must be turned off to prevent deadly electric shock incidents.
When instructed to evacuate during floods, immediately leave the premises and lock the house, he said.
Wan Mohd Zahari said the public can contact the Kuantan police headquarters at 09-565 2089 (hotline) for emergency assistance.
Neighbouring district Maran was hit by the second wave of flooding today with 128 people from 35 families evacuatesd to six relief centres.