How to Stay Safe During Urban Waterlogging? How to Identify Dislodged Manhole Covers?
TyphoonSays·防御问答 · Security Rescue · 更新 at 2026-07-20
Avoid "Invisible Traps" and Watch Your Step
During urban waterlogging, floodwaters are often murky, making it difficult to discern underwater conditions. Among the various hazards, manhole covers that have been dislodged or shifted by strong currents pose a significant safety risk. To identify these "traps," first observe the water's surface dynamics: if you see continuous vortices, bubbling, or abnormal convergence of water flow in a specific area, it is highly likely caused by strong suction from drainage outlets or missing manhole covers. Stay away from such areas. Secondly, listen carefully; if you hear the echoing sound of water rushing into a hollow space, remain alert. If you must wade through water, use tools like a long stick or an umbrella to "probe" your path, following the principle of "testing with the front foot, stepping firmly with the back foot" to check for pits or obstacles ahead. Do not run or jump blindly, as losing your balance could cause you to fall into an open manhole. Additionally, stay away from streetlights, transformer boxes, and other electrical facilities to prevent electric shock, as floodwater can become a conductive medium due to potential leakage.
Practice Scientific Safety Measures to Ensure Personal Security
When heavy rain causes severe street flooding, the primary principle is "avoid if possible; do not go out unless necessary." If travel is unavoidable, choose routes on higher ground with solid pavement. If you are indoors, ensure windows and doors are tightly closed, and move flower pots and miscellaneous items from balconies inside to prevent falling objects. Residents on lower floors should prepare sandbags and flood barriers in advance to prevent backflow. If water enters your home, immediately cut off the main power supply to prevent short circuits that could lead to fires or electric shocks. For drivers, do not attempt to force your way through flooded sections. Generally, passage is prohibited if the water depth exceeds half the height of your tires. If your vehicle stalls in water, absolutely do not attempt to restart the engine, as this can cause severe damage and is typically not covered by insurance. In such cases, abandon the vehicle quickly, escape to higher ground, and wait for rescue. Life is always more important than property.
Monitor Alerts and Follow Official Guidelines
To guard against typhoons and waterlogging disasters, it is crucial to closely monitor meteorological warning information. According to the national standard for tropical cyclone grades issued by the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), typhoons are classified into different levels: tropical storm, severe tropical storm, typhoon, severe typhoon, and super typhoon, each accompanied by varying intensities of rainfall and wind. When meteorological departments issue red warnings for heavy rain or high-level typhoon alerts, it often indicates that extreme weather is imminent or occurring. At such times, local authorities may activate corresponding emergency response mechanisms, including measures such as suspending classes, work, production, and transportation. Note that standards may vary by location, so refer to announcements from local governments. The public should obtain the latest instructions through television, radio, and official new media channels, and avoid believing rumors. At the community level, comply with the unified arrangements of neighborhood committees and property management, and evacuate in an orderly manner to designated shelters. Staying calm and stocking up on essential drinking water, food, and first-aid medicines forms the basis for coping with emergencies.
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This article is typhoonsay's original copy content, and the local policy standards are based on the local government's latest release.