The Anambra State Police Command has advised parents, guardians and caregivers to heighten vigilance and take precautions to protect schoolchildren during heavy rainfall and flooding.
The advisory follows recent flooding in parts of the state which led to the death of a school pupil.
In a statement on Tuesday, Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, advised parents to avoid allowing children to travel during heavy rainfall, especially where there are signs of flooding or water overflowing roads and drainage channels.
The Command warned parents never to allow children to cross flooded roads, bridges, drainage channels or waterways, saying floodwater can conceal open drains and other hazards.
It urged close supervision of schoolchildren before, during and after school hours, particularly in flood-prone areas, and advised parents to maintain communication with schools and transport providers during severe weather.
Parents were also advised to teach children to stay away from floodwater and move to safe, elevated locations when flooding begins.
“Prioritise safety over punctuality. Where a route becomes flooded or unsafe, parents should not pressure children, school bus operators or other drivers to proceed through the area,” Ikenga said.
He urged parents to promptly alert police or emergency responders when a child is missing or endangered due to flooding.
The Command also urged motorists and school bus operators to exercise extreme caution and discontinue movement when road conditions become unsafe.
It said through its Safe School initiatives and community policing structures, it continues to work with schools and stakeholders to strengthen protection of children.
“If the road is flooded, do not take the risk. Turn back and seek a safer route,” Ikenga added.
