Warning against crossing flooded rivers

PUPILS in Matabeleland South Province have been warned from attempting to cross flooded rivers on their way either to or from school.

A senior Government official advised school-going children to wait for flooded rivers to subside and never attempt to cross.

The warning comes after the current rains that are being experienced across the province and country.

In an interview, the Provincial Education Director, Beatrice Manjere, said pupils must either stay at school or at home when rivers are flooded.

“As the Ministry of Education, we discourage our learners from attempting to cross flooded rivers. It has always been our policy that pupils must stay on the safe side of the river whenever there are floods.

“In the event learners get marooned on the school side of the river, teachers play the guardian and parent role by keeping them safe at school until the river subsides.

“In the worst case scenario, they keep them and then alert the Civil Protection Unit, who will then come to their rescue using smart means that will not expose them to danger,” said Manjere.
The Meteorological Services Department advised that from Thursday to Saturday there would be heavy widespread thunderstorms.

Through their advisory, the MSD said: “When thunder rumbles, find appropriate shelter, nearby as thunderstorms may be accompanied by strong winds and lightning. Also avoid crossing flooded rivers at all times.”