Filenews 22 February 2025
Recommendations to citizens were issued by the Civil Defence, in view of the yellow warning from the Department of Meteorology due to the Coral air mass soul. The aim is to minimize the negative effects of heavy rainfall, storms, snowfall and frost.
Specifically, the communication states:
The Civil Defence Force, following a relevant announcement by the Department of Meteorology, makes the following recommendations to the public, aiming at prevention and proper preparation to minimize risks and negative consequences:
Frost self-protection measures
Prepare:
- In areas where frost has formed, caution is required when driving. Get informed about the condition of the road network and have snow chains.
- If you are traveling on foot, wear appropriate shoes to avoid injuries due to slippery.
In residential water supply networks:
- Find out where your home's water meter (clock) is located, as well as where the central and regional water supply switches are located.
- Check and make sure that the switches of the water supply network turn on and off and operate smoothly.
- Make sure that external pipes (e.g. solar water heater, balcony taps) are insulated and make sure they are insulated as soon as possible.
- Isolate or evacuate the solar water heater network if you are going to be away for a long time during the winter. Set the heating system of the house to work automatically at low temperatures.
- Turn off the water supply to the solar water heater and drain the water from the system if you are at home during frost and especially at night.
- Don't waste water to remove snow and ice.
- Limit activities that require increased water consumption (washing machines, etc.).
- Find out if antifreeze has been installed in the solar water heater by the manufacturer or the installation specialist, in case of closed circuit. Otherwise, get the appropriate antifreeze and take care of its installation.
- Check for leaks in taps or cisterns.
- Make sure gutters on balconies and terraces are clean of leaves and debris and running smoothly.
If frost prevails:
If the main water pipes freeze:
- Immediately turn off the main water supply switch of the house and check the water meter. If it continues to work ("writes") then there is a leak in the network. Turn off the switch of the central supply and call a plumber.
- If you decide to defrost the pipes, start from the part of the pipe near the switch so that the temperature change is gradual. If you don't get results, contact a plumber.
- Check if electrical installations are wet or at risk to isolate them.
Flood self-protection measures
- Make sure the manholes outside your home or workplace are not clogged.
- Make sure that the gutters in your premises are functioning normally.
- If you have a basement in a vulnerable area at risk of flooding, proceed to digging a special water accumulation pit and install an automatic water pump. Remove valuables or expensive equipment from your basement.
- If you live on a plot with a yard, leave -where possible- free soil for the land to absorb water.
- Fix objects that may be swept away by water and moved (e.g. tanks, water heaters, etc.).
- Repair any openings in fencing walls.
- Prepare sandbags that will prevent water from entering your premises if it is located in an area at risk of flooding.
- In case you are informed about the occurrence of heavy rainfall, limit your movements and avoid working and staying underground.
During the flood
If you are inside a building:
- Leave underground spaces and move to a safe high point.
If you're in an open space:
- Do not cross a flooded road on foot or by car/bicycle/motorcycle.
- Stop and change direction if you find yourself on a flooded road.
- Abandon your car if it is stationary, as it may be swept away or flooded.
- Stay away from power lines.
- Do not approach areas where landslides have occurred.
After the flood
If you're in an open space:
- Stay away from areas that have flooded or are at risk of flooding in the coming hours because:
- the flood may have altered the characteristics of familiar areas,
- pose risks from broken pavements and areas with dangerous gradients, and
- The waters may be contaminated if they have carried away various kinds of objects or animals.
- Do not obstruct rescue crews.
- Do not use the phone without good reason.
Before starting restoration procedures:
- Remember that flood hazards do not subside immediately after water withdrawal.
- Make sure your area is safe and you can return for the restoration work.
- Turn off the power and water supply switches.
- Wear closed shoes and appropriate clothing to avoid injury.
Snowfall protection measures
Prepare:
If you live in a mountainous or inaccessible area experiencing snowfall problems:
- Stock up on heating material and food for several days.
- Take care of snow clearing equipment (e.g. shovels).
During snowfall or blizzard:
If you're at home:
- Keep the place warm and stay in it as long as you can.
- Don't let children go out unaccompanied.
- Wear appropriate clothes and shoes.
- Check the water supply network, pipes and glazing of the solar water heater.
If you are in the car:
- Avoid driving in rough mountainous areas.
- Change course if you are on a rough road and there is heavy snowfall.
- Keep a safe distance from vehicles in front.
- Stay in the car if it comes to a standstill. Place a brightly coloured cloth on the radio antenna or other visible place so that rescue teams can locate you. Turn on the engine for 10 minutes per hour and keep the exhaust clear of snow.
If you're outdoors:
- Go to a safe place without being exposed to the blizzard.
- Dress in several layers of light and warm clothing instead of heavy clothing and wear warm waterproof boots. Prefer a waterproof outerwear.
- Be careful when moving in areas where snowfall is predicted.
- Use snow chains if it is absolutely necessary to move by car. It is better to travel during the day, using main roads. Inform your relatives about the route you will follow.
- Prefer public transport for transportation in the city.
