The Anambra State Police Command has urged parents, guardians, schools and transport operators to take extra precautions to protect schoolchildren as heavy rainfall and flooding continue to affect parts of the state.
The warning followed a recent flooding incident that tragically claimed the life of a school pupil, prompting the Command to call for greater vigilance during severe weather conditions.
The Police advised parents and guardians not to allow children to travel through flooded roads, bridges, drainage channels or waterways, warning that floodwater could conceal open drains, culverts, erosion channels and other dangerous hazards.
The Command also cautioned against allowing children to cross seemingly shallow floodwaters, stressing that familiar routes could become dangerous during periods of heavy rainfall.
Parents were encouraged to maintain communication with schools and transport providers during severe weather and confirm the safety and location of their children before they begin their journey home.
The Police further advised motorists, school bus operators and other drivers conveying children to suspend movement whenever road conditions become unsafe rather than attempting to pass through flooded areas.
According to the Command, children should also be taught to stay away from floodwater, drainage channels, rivers, culverts and construction sites and to immediately move to higher and safer ground whenever flooding occurs.
The Police urged residents to promptly alert security agencies or emergency responders if anyone becomes stranded, endangered or missing during flooding.
The Command said its Safe School initiatives and community policing structures would continue to support efforts involving schools, communities and other stakeholders to improve the safety of children across Anambra.
It stressed that parents and other road users should prioritise safety over punctuality, warning: If the road is flooded, do not take the risk. Turn back and seek a safer route.
