Getting ready: Air Itam Bukit Bendera Volunteer Fire Brigade members filling up tanks from the Island Glades and Bukit Jambul areas.
GEORGE TOWN: As Penang water consumers rush to store water at their homes, experts have warned about the danger of leaving toddlers alone to play near the water tanks.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) family medicine specialist Dr Mastura Mohd Sopian said to avoid any mishap at their home during the four-day water cut, parents or guardians should always be on their toes as children love to play with water.
“Cases of drowning, especially involving children under five years old, are the most common.
“Parents should watch closely the little ones at home during this period,” she said.
Dr Mastura said parents could use a nappy bucket with a tight-fitting lid and keep the bucket closed to keep it out of their child’s reach.
“Even when the older siblings are bathing together with the younger siblings, parents must keep a close watch on them.
“Don’t take anything for granted. Also ensure that there are no ladders near the water tanks to prevent a child from climbing and falling into the tanks,” she said.
Dr Mastura also advised residents to watch out for water pollution and diarrhoea cases during the supply recovery period.
“The untreated water may cause children to fall ill. If possible, don’t use pipe water once the supply has been restored. Drinking water should be boiled.
“Everyone should also learn how to do a cardiopulmonary resuscitation during an emergency. It may save your child’s life,” she said.
Malaysian Public Health Organization advisor Datuk Dr Zainal Ariffin Omar said parents should never allow their children especially the younger ones to play near water containers.
He cautioned that the children could easily slip and fall.
State health committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen advised the public to monitor their children’s whereabouts if they are storing big water containers at home.
“Please make sure all containers are covered properly to prevent any mishap.
“Keep an eye on your kids and explain to them the danger of going near the water containers,” he said.
