Be careful as rains start; Tree Ambassador Bonde warns residents

National Tree Ambassador Never Bonde has warned citizens to always take precautionary measures to avoid dangers of either being killed by lightning, swept away by water and having their vehicles being trapped under huge trees as the rainy season has started.

Bonde who is a renounced environmentalist said there are certain precautionary measures people need to take to avoid loss of life and damages to our property.

"The heavy downpours can bring both life-giving water and destructive floods. We must take action to protect our homes,our crops and our lives. Firstly to those who stay in the villages,we urge you not to cross flooded rivers. School children are encouraged to move in groups on their way home from school after dismissal," he said.

"They are urged to use bridges as they cross rivers. If they approach flooded rivers it's advisable for them to go back and seek shelter at their respective schools or nearby safe places. Forcing to cross flooded rivers might result in loss of life. "

He said as most of citizens in the villages are preparing for land cultivation, they must avoid working in the rain as they might be violent storms which can bring strong winds and lightning posing a threat to human life.

"We are experiencing these storms due to climatic changes.  Let's avoid steep slope cultivation. Villagers are encouraged to adopt contour farming and terracing techniques to reduce soil erosion and prevent landslides," he said.

"Due to heavy rains some of our roads are impassible because of deep gullies. Let's work together to reclaim the roads by filling the gullies with soil and gravel. Make sure your homes are strong and secure so that they can withstand heavy rains and strong winds. Reinforce them with strong roofs and walls. "

He said to those who stay in town, they are urged not to park their cars under trees or power lines to avoid accidents or loss of life.

"The majority  of trees in most of our towns are of age and they're no longer strongly rooted to the ground. Also avoid driving when it's raining,pullover and wait for the rain to stop to avoid accidents and loss of lives . Trim any branches that are close to power lines," he said.

"People are discouraged from seeking shelter under trees during this rain season. Seek shelter in strong buildings or designated safe zones during storms. Avoid outdoor activities. "

Bonde said as Zimbabwe is considered a Christian country, many of us people have joined the Masowe sector who practice outdoor worship.

"Lightning is usually attracted by the white garments being put on by people gathered at one place. Congregates are encouraged to disperse as soon as they see the rain coming. Church leaders are encouraged to dismiss people and not mislead them saying the spirit is saying be still in one position.

In addition to this our country is experiencing power shortages. We encourage fellow citizens to opt for the use of gas. If you can acquire a gas tank and a gas top or gas plate it will be of great use," he said.

"As the National Tree Ambassador of Zimbabwe I'm troubled by the deforestation caused by people who are cutting down trees for fire wood. Yes there is power shortage but we have an option to use gas. Remember the law on keeping safe the forests is still in practice.

Also the season for afforestation is approaching let's make the necessary preparations for tree planting. In conclusion let's work together and take proactive measures to minimize risks caused by rain."