SHENZHEN is a coastal city which faces flood risks. Experts with the Shenzhen Municipal Emergency Management Bureau offered tips to help citizens be better informed against typhoons and rainy weather, according to Shenzhen Special Zone Daily yesterday.

During downpours, cars are vulnerable to get stuck in floods. Experts suggested that drivers should avoid unfamiliar culverts during typhoon days. When driving through flooded tunnels, it is better to keep the windows open should there be a need to escape if the car breaks down.

It is also necessary to have an escape hammer in the car for emergencies, in addition to the one placed in the trunk. It is said that some institutions have done tests which showed that only a hammer can break windows while other tools such as high-heeled shoes and scissors cannot.

In addition, experts said that when being stuck in flooded water, people can try to escape through the trunk.

How about getting out inside a flooded Metro train carriage? First, listen to professional guidance and don’t forcefully open the door.

Second, if the water level is low and stable, people can open the door manually or smash the four corners of the window to get out under the guidance of professionals and evacuate from the escape passage at the front of the carriage in an orderly manner.

When it is impossible to evacuate from the maintenance channel, return to the train quickly, tightly close the train doors and windows and wait for rescue.

Third, while waiting for rescue, raise your body position as much as possible, such as standing on a seat or holding a guardrail or handrail to float.

Finally, when the water level reaches chest level and threatens normal breathing, smash the window and open the door to escape.

How should citizens avoid danger when they encounter a flood in an urban area? Experts pointed out that citizens should quickly climb to a solid high-rise building nearby to avoid danger.

The experts also suggested citizens make wooden rafts, and collect wooden basins, wooden blocks and other life-saving floatation devices for urgent needs.

In the meantime, it is also recommended to prepare some basic medications at home in case of emergency.

Experts specially reminded that when trapped in a flood, residents should stay calm and ensure their mobile phones have enough power to call for rescue. (Wang Jingli)