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Before. During. After. The Storm
The calm before storm isn’t that “calm”, it’s usually a mad dash to the store to see if there are any salvageable necessities. Getting to the aisles and seeing that the canned foods are not there anymore and you’re going to have to make do with ramen, that you pray you can somehow heat water for. We have a few tips on what you can do when you start to hear that the season of hurricanes is upon us:
Before:
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Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include items like batteries, cash, first aid supplies, flashlights.
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Bring in outdoor items that can become projectiles.
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Have enough drinking water for everyone in your home for a few days.
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Have a communication plan figured out with family members and other necessary points of contact.
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Keep your primary vehicle in good working condition and filled with gas or charged.
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Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances,
During:
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Use a television or radio, portable or not, to listen for important storm updates and information.
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Remain inside, away from windows, doors, go to a safe central interior room until the storm has passed.
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Do not go outside, stay sheltered within the safety of your home’s structure.
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If power is lost keep refrigerator closed to keep cold air trapped and delay spoil of perishable foods.
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If you use a portable generator follow instructions, it should be operated outdoors, in a well-grounded location, away from windows and doorways.
After:
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Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you over, fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
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Floodwater could also be electrically charged from downed powerlines, and it could also be hiding dangerous debris and unstable areas where the ground has washed away.
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You should only go back home if the authorities have said that it is okay or safe to do so. Keeping in touch with friends and loved ones is pivotal to ensure you are safe.