WhatsApp, the much maligned social messaging service has also turned out to be a boon at a time when an unprecedented natural calamity in the form of floods, struck the southernmost state of Kerala. Good Samaritans in parts of Kerala and elsewhere in the country used WhatsApp to seek relief supplies giving specifics such as material needed, pick up and drop points and also addresses and phone numbers of individuals to be contacted. WhatsApp also came in handy to caution flood victims about the steps they ought to take while returning to their homes. For instance, one message doing the rounds advises them not to go home alone at night. Further it tells them to ensure that they do not take children who could be scarred by the experience. They are warned to be aware of the presence of reptiles, including poisonous ones.

Similarly, they need to watch out for gas leakages, switch off all mains and unplug all electronic gadgets before lighting a match stick. Finally, they are advised to inform the police station if they see a dead body and counselled against touching them.

Also Read: No Provision To Declare A Disaster As ‘National Calamity’: Centre

If you are one of the victims in Kerala just about to return home, it helps to keep this checklist handy. Have a look...

Meanwhile, another WhatsApp post educates people on clean up kits needed to re-enter their homes such as rubebr boots, gloves, N-95 masks, goggles, detergents, disinfectants and rodent killers among other things. Check this....

Perhaps the most touching story which emerged from the rescue efforts was of the pilot who saved a pregnant woman from the rooftop of her house and the family's reciprocal expression of their gratitude.

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Naval Commander Vijay Verma became a national hero overnight, again thanks to social media, though for him the act of saving a pregnant lady was all in the course of a day's work. The family deeply touched by the rescue mission inscribed the word 'Thanks' in large letter on their rooftop. Have a look at the special thank you note...