Let us first have a look around the house. Electricity and water do not go together. It would be wise to give a thorough check-up to the wirings, switches, plugs and positioning of wires around the house. Furthermore, do not forget the electrical appliances. In case they have any faults, attend to them at the earliest. A stitch in time saves nine. During the rains, many houses especially the old ones spring leaks. Make sure the electrical wirings are well clear of these leaks. Water dripping on to live electrical wiring could and does cause fatal accidents.

Here in the South, we are inclined to go barefoot in our homes. This practice needs to be given a go by. Take no chances with electricity. It is a good friend if treated with respect. Never handle electricity barefoot or with wet clothes and shoes. You could get a nasty shock. And remember to change damaged wiring so that no temporary connections are lying anywhere around the house.

Monsoon is also the season for ailments. It is not uncommon to come across cases of viral attacks (not of the NET variety) and coughs and colds. Water borne diseases are also common during the rainy season. So be careful what you eat and drink, especially drink. Keep away from cut fruits, Calcutta chats, unless of course you are at Mowbreys at Alwarpet, TTK Road. Avoid so-called fresh fruit juices from the road-side vendors.

The dangers of slips and falls also increase during rains. A window inadvertently left open, a gap in the door and the floor level, all can let rain water seep in. Mop it dry immediately. Especially if you have toddlers or elders at home. Slipping and falling on wet patches and puddles can cause serious injuries both to adults and children.

You may have expensive furniture in your designer drawing room. Keep it safe from moisture and humidity. Rearrange it in such a way that it does not get wet. Give special attention to the expensive upholstery. Water not only damages the upholstery but sitting on damp cushions and mattresses can lead to protracted cough and cold. Besides, it requires a Herculean effort to dry wet bedding and upholstery on damp and cloudy days.

Wet months also herald the collapse of weak and old buildings. If you live in any such building, it is better to leave. Nothing is worth losing your life. The civic authorities every year declare several old buildings as dangerous and unfit for habitation. But the occupants pay no need and in turn pay with their lives.

Visibility is generally poor during rains. A light coloured raincoat with a visored cap and proper footwear offers you better protection when compared to an umbrella. Unlike an umbrella, it leaves both hands free and does not get into anyone else’s way.

Children love to splash through waterlogged streets, this could be dangerous. Waterlogging conceals a lot of rubbish spilling over from dustbins, drains and manholes. It often contains glass pieces, stone chips, slivers of wood and other substances. These can inflict serious injuries on tender bare feet. Furthermore there is always an open manhole lurking somewhere to gobble up an unwary child.

Constant waterlogging and heavy rains damage the roads causing cracks, potholes and rough and uneven patches. Power cables snap and hang dangerously creating a dangerous scene. The threat of electrocution becomes alive. Trees are uprooted and block passage. This calls for extra care and extreme caution on part of both drivers and pedestrians alike. It is a good idea to carry a torch with you and to wear light and bright clothes when you plan to venture out of house during rains.

Be extra alert and safety conscious both in and out of the house. Wish you a safe monsoon.