DOH tells public: Prepare for cyclone ‘Mawar’

 BY CHARIE MAE F. ABARCA

  

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A tropical cyclone with an international name Mawar is being monitored by the country’s weather bureau. Although the weather disturbance is not yet directly affecting the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) advised Filipinos to prepare and report any untoward incident that may be triggered by the cyclone.

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The DOH on Monday, May 22, has issued an advisory listing safety preparations as typhoon Mawar continues to approach the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).

First on the DOH’s list is to understand signs of emergency. Apart from paying close attention to weather updates, the department stressed the need for learning the chain of information communication systems in communities in times of hazards.

“Learn, understand, and follow Early Warning Systems (EWS) in the community,” it stressed.

Filipinos were also told to inspect their houses for necessary repairs while cyclone Mawar is not yet directly affecting the archipelago.

“Prepare your home for flooding, fully charge all your electronic gadgets, [and] keep important documents at a higher level,” said DOH.

To avoid injuries and casualties in case flooding occurs, the health department also highlighted the need for creating an evacuation plan.

“Know the locations of multi-storey buildings and pre-arrange with families or friends living in the higher grounds for evacuation in case of flooding. Know the important emergency contact numbers, [and] get everyone in your family a whistle,” it furthered.

Last on the DOH’s list is to prepare a Go Bag – a kit containing emergency essentials. Essentials, according to DOH,  include ready to eat food and water, clothes, first aid kit, sleeping bags, flash lights, batteries, toiletries, cash, as well as Covid-19 protection kit.

“Ensure that the Go Bag is easily accessible to everyone. Should there be an emergency, do not hesitate to contact your local disaster and emergency risk team for assistance,” DOH concluded.

The state weather bureau on Monday said typhoon Mawar is expected to enter PAR on Friday, May 26. It will then be given the domestic name Betty.