SUVA, Oct. 7 (Xinhua) -- Fiji launched its National Disaster Awareness Week on Monday in Suva, capital of the country as it braces itself for the cyclone season from November to April.

Fiji's Acting Director for National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) Litiana Bainimarama said on Monday that they are mandated by law to conduct the awareness week.

"Through the National Disaster Awareness Week, our aim is to enhance the level of disaster preparedness of communities and anticipate reduction of damage and losses that may occur if a disaster strikes," she said.

The week will be held in Taveuni, the third largest island in Fiji, after Fiji's main island of Viti Levu and the northern island of Vanua Levu, from October 15 to 17.

Planned activities for the three-day event include presentations by relevant agencies, community awareness, tabletop and simulation exercises, booths and displays by government ministries and non-government organisations.

The National Disaster Management Office is also advising the general public to be prepared and take heed of the heavy rain warning that has been issued for most parts of the island nation.

People living in low lying areas are to exercise caution as heavy rain continues. Parents are advised to monitor the whereabouts of their children at all times and to keep them away from flooded drains or waterways. The general public is also advised to refrain from crossing flooded roads and footpaths.