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Abu Dhabi schools get contingency plan for rain

With some parts of the country experiencing turbulent weather conditions and predictions of it remaining “unstable” for the next few days, the education authority here has developed an emergency plan for schools in case of rain and wind. The Abu Dhabi Education Council (Adec) circulated the plan among all schools in the emirate.

According to the plan, rain and wet conditions increase hazards associated with slipping and tripping, braking distances of vehicles, and the potential for slippage and handling difficulties for tools and heavy equipment. Rains create potholes and increase the risk of electrical shock when working with electrical equipment. In addition, changes in soil conditions caused by rains create the potential for quicksand formation, wall collapse, and cave-in, the plan said.

Vehicles become stuck in mud, and tools and personnel can slip on wet surfaces. These conditions may also decrease visibility. In some areas, heavy rain can result in flooding, the circular warned.

The circular instructed schools to ensure that nurses and first aid tools are available on-site and to update parents on the situation. If applicable, 4x4 vehicles should be available to help vehicles stuck in the water. Shelters should be provided to students and visitors.

All school community members are advised to bring warm clothing. Authorities such as the Civil Defense, the Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC), municipalities, and sewer services, should be called in case of emergencies, the plan said.

In addition, students should be advised to not pass through watery areas, or play in the rain. Unnecessary electrical equipment should be switched off. Lectures should be organized by schools to inform students about how to deal with heavy rain and wind.

As for school transportation, Adec advised drivers to take all necessary precautionary measures. They are asked to park the car along the pavement when students get on and off it. In addition, drivers should make sure that all vehicle parts are functional. Bus supervisors are required to give students the utmost care when using the bus and be available near school buildings when evacuation is expected.

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