What Are 3 Things You Can Do to Prepare for a Hurricane?

Mother nature sometimes tests us to remind us of its existence. You cannot control any natural disaster or change its course. However, you can prepare yourself to avoid it and minimize potential damage. Certain procedures can help keep safe from any natural disaster.

Preparing for a hurricane requires a safety plan and security plan. While this is before the hurricane, there should be a plan for managing after the disaster. Below you will find some major tips you need to do for these 3 things.

The Safety Plan

1. The first and most important thing is to make your evacuation plan. If you are going to stay home, look for a safer room or a safer place to stay in.
2. Discuss the type of hazards with your family and educate each one on a solution for potential hazards.
3. Stock food supplies, water, and medicines. A first aid kit is a must-have in case of any natural disaster.
4. Keep extra batteries for your portable radios and flashlights in airtight containers.
5. Ensure you have proper power banks to charge your cell phones.
6. Fill your bathtubs, buckets, and sinks with water to have enough for use.

Evacuation Plan

1. If you need to evacuate your house. Take advice from local authorities and follow the rules.
2. Before evacuating switch off all your appliance to avoid short circuits and electrocution. Unplug all your computer and portable devices. If possible, pack them up and secure them in storage at a higher place.
3. Turn the mains switch off the electricity to avoid electric shocks.
4. Secure all the loose items. Pack all your important stuff and documents etc. Carry them with you if necessary.
5. Turn off water supplies to avoid flooding if pipes get broken.
6. Turn off gas to prevent leaks and avoid the risk of fire.
7. Ensure your car is properly serviced and maintained. Keep your fuel tank full and take extra emergency supplies and clothes.
8. Plan your escape routes and ensure that the safe is within 10 miles of reach.
9. Follow the community preparedness guidelines. Make sure to secure your pets as well if you have any.

The Aftermath

1. When the storm has passed, and you return home. Take a rough assessment of the damage caused.
2. Take pictures or videos of the damaged things.
3. Report to the local authorities if you see any broken or downed power lines.
4. Do not turn on your house power immediately. Only do that when local authorities ensure everything is perfect.
5. Do not use electric or gas appliances if they are wet.
6. Never use woodfired stoves or charcoal oven indoors.
7. Avoid using a generator indoors. They produce carbon monoxide, which can cause suffocation and even death.
8. Follow the necessary safety precautions to protect your family from disease and infections.
9. Stay away from floodwaters.
10. If floodwaters have damaged your property. Begin cleaning up the debris and repairs to avoid mold.
11. Ensure you have proper gear before taking out any maintenance jobs.
12. Seek help from your local waste management company to clean-up and keep safe.

While these were just a few tips to ensure complete safety and security of your family. Follow the guidelines of local authorities and pray for everyone to be safe.

George Warren is a Labour Manager at Pink Skip. He is also an architect, designer, engineer and artist.