The Federal Fire Service (FFS), Federal Capital Territory Command, has raised a fresh flood alert in Abuja, urging residents to exercise caution as heavy and persistent rainfall increases the risk of flooding across the Territory.
The Controller of the FCT Command, Muhammed Anas, gave the warning in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, particularly advising residents of low-lying communities, riverbanks and areas with inadequate drainage systems to remain vigilant.
Anas said human activities could significantly worsen flooding, stressing that preventing loss of lives and property required the collective efforts of residents and relevant authorities.
He cautioned residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drains, gutters, canals and waterways, as well as construction on floodplains, waterways and drainage channels.
According to him, blocked drainage systems, sand dredging and indiscriminate excavation around rivers and streams could also obstruct natural water flow and increase the severity of flooding.
The FFS further identified construction without approved plans or adequate drainage provisions, poorly designed roads and culverts, and farming or building activities along riverbanks and other flood-prone areas as practices capable of aggravating the situation.
The Controller urged residents to regularly clear drains, gutters and their surroundings of refuse and debris, while avoiding settlements and construction in low-lying or flood-prone locations.
He also advised residents to monitor weather forecasts and comply with flood alerts and safety directives issued by relevant authorities.
Anas warned residents against attempting to cross flooded roads, bridges, streams or rivers, either on foot or in vehicles, stressing that even shallow floodwater could pose serious danger.
He called on parents and guardians to keep children away from floodwaters, drains, rivers and open culverts.
Residents in flooded areas were advised to switch off electrical appliances and avoid contact with electrical installations, exposed wires and appliances that had come into contact with water.
In the event of flooding, the FFS advised residents to remain calm and move immediately to higher ground or other safe locations.
Households were also urged to move valuables, important documents, food supplies and other essential items to higher levels where possible, while prioritising the evacuation of children, elderly persons and persons with disabilities.
The Service warned against drinking or using floodwater because of possible contamination and advised residents not to walk or drive through flooded areas.
It further urged residents to immediately contact the FFS or other emergency responders whenever flooding occurs and to return to affected homes only after the area has been declared safe by the appropriate authorities.
Anas reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Command to responding swiftly to emergencies and protecting lives and property across the Territory.
He appealed to residents to cooperate with emergency responders, obey safety instructions and promptly report flood incidents and other emergencies to the appropriate authorities.
FFS FCT Emergency Number: 0803 200 3557.
