The Philippines, being a tropical country and being near big bodies of water, is often hit by typhoons. There have been several occasions where we have been bombarded by calamities, typhoon after typhoon. Keep in mind that a typhoon or any kind of calamity can hit our country anytime. We should always be prepared for anything that could strike. It’s always good to be safe and prepared than sorry.
Here are 5 tips to prepare you and your family in case of a (super) typhoon:
1. Make your home typhoon-proof. Prepare your home by checking your doors, windows, walls, and roof. Make sure to tighten all the loose screws on your door hinges and see to it that the holes on your roof and the cracks on your walls are all patched up. Remember, prevention is better than cure.
2. Stock up on food items and water. Make sure that you stock up on easy to cook items and water. In any case of things going worse and you getting stuck in your house because of flood you would not go hungry. Remember that dehydration is your number 1 enemy. So make sure you have ample amount of drinking water ready.
3. Purchase enough batteries and charge all important electronic devices such as your mobile phone, emergency light, and battery-operated radio or TV. You should keep yourself aware of what’s happening in your area and keep your relatives informed of your situation. Don’t forget to save the emergency numbers on your mobile phone as this could really help you when things get a little rough.
4. Elevate. If your area is prone to floods, make sure to elevate your important items, pieces of furniture, and most importantly your appliances. Any item that uses electricity should be included in your priorities.
5. Prepare an emergency survival kit for you and your family. Pack candies, biscuits, and other ready-to-eat food, as well as bottles of water enough to last you for 3 to 5 days. Don’t forget to include flashlights, matches, candles, basic toiletry items, medicines, as well as books or toys (to entertain you or your child). An emergency flotation device such as floaters, life-vest, or life buoy is important if you have children or babies. Your valuable documents should be placed in waterproof bags or packaging to keep them safe and dry.
Additional Tips:
1. Explain to your children what’s happening. In the family kids are the ones prone to panic when they see you or any family member panicking. Keep it cool and try not to panic – explain to them what is going on and what they have to do so they too can participate in the preparation.
2. Do not wait for the 11th hour to evacuate. This concerns families leaving in flood prone areas. Fear that you might lose all your possessions is understandable but risking your life or your family well-being is close to insanity. Always prioritize your life above all when disaster strikes.
Regardless weather a storm is weak or strong; it is always advisable for anyone to be prepared and have these practical tips in mind so that we won’t end up stuck during a storm.
Photo Credit: Greenpeaceblogs.org