Storms, hail, blizzards, ice storms, hurricanes, storm surges, tornadoes, or heavy rain can develop rapidly and threaten life and property. They come in different sizes and shapes, each with its dangers. A common factor in every storm is that they could be dangerous, requiring proper precautions before any severe storm hits your neighborhood.
You can reduce the impact of a severe storm by taking time to prepare in advance. Whenever there is a storm, safety matters most. You have a responsibility to protect your family and your home.
This article looks at how you can prepare for a severe storm.
KNOW THE RISKS AND GET PREPARED
Storm preparation starts with knowing the risks specific to your area. For example, you will need to cut down old trees and trim some dead branches to reduce the risk of them falling onto your house during the storm.
Ensure your roof is in perfect condition to provide shelter and clean your gutters and drains. It’s critical to call an expert to inspect your roof for any storm damage, allowing you to identify minor issues before they turn into major ones.
Authorities usually issue warning signs through telephone lines and local media stations when a severe storm is in sight. Get out of the area subject to floodings, such as dips and low spots. Once you are home, check out any loose items outside the house, such as patio furniture or trash bins, that could blow away.
Check weather forecasts
It is critical to check the weather forecast before venturing out for extended periods. For instance, if you plan to go for water activities like boating or skiing, know the weather forecast for that specific day. Do not go boating if the forecasts point out a possible storm.
Besides, if you see bad weather approaching and are on a boat, head for the shore immediately. Have a life jacket with you, especially with the water rising.
You can prepare by checking with the local emergency management offices and following the National Weather Service. The vital information from these organizations can help you understand what to do during the storm.
Take precautionary steps
If severe storms find you in a car, stop the car away from trees and power lines that might fall on you. Stay inside your car and wait until the eye of the storm has passed and it’s safe to drive. Always follow the safety warnings about flooded roads and avoid driving in flooded areas. This is because your car will not protect you from the flooded water; it can be swept away or stall in moving water.
Usually, if you can still hear thunder, you are close enough to a storm and may be struck by lightning. Hence, don’t shelter under isolated trees, small sheds, or convertible vehicles. Instead, get inside a hardtop automobile and keep the windows up when lightning occurs.
Remember, don’t drive to safety when there is a storm; most flash flood deaths occur in vehicles.
Maintain constant communication
Disaster preparedness after a storm alert involves following the proper steps. Maintaining constant communication by keeping a toll-free telephone hotline to get updates on the situation is important. However, do not use the landline telephone except for emergencies. You should also watch for signs of approaching storms and postpone any outdoor activities if the storm is imminent.
Stay informed on weather updates via Smartphone applications, television, or radio. Hence, you’ll need to keep a battery-powered radio for emergencies. This also helps you stay informed in case the local authorities advise you to evacuate immediately and without delay.
Stay put in the house
During preparation, identify possible risks like power cuts and telecommunication failure that may occur or be affected by the storm. Power outages are frequent during thunderstorms, so have an alternative light source. For example, have spare batteries and flashlights easily accessible. A generator can also help during a long-term power outage.
If the severe storm finds you in the house, stay away from the windows, doors, and fireplaces. During a lightning storm, stay away from electrical, metal, or any good conductors of electricity. Since telephone lines and metal pipes can conduct electricity, avoid using telephones or electrical appliances and only use phones in an emergency. Also, remember to unplug appliances not involved in getting weather information. The best advice is to stay in a safe location and wait for the storm.
Make an emergency plan
Since severe storms seem endless, causing flash flooding and downing trees and power lines, the best way to prepare for a storm is before the season starts. For example, understand your home’s vulnerability to storm surges, flooding, and wind. Create a household evacuation plan and be ready for any unpredictable event.
An emergency plan can help you know what to do in an emergency. For example, your emergency plan should identify places inside the house where you will meet in case of a severe storm. Usually, this is an anterior part of the house or the basement inside the building.
Educate your family members on what to do in an emergency scenario. For example, they should know how to evacuate the house, administer first aid, turn off the electricity, use a fire extinguisher, and turn off leaking gas. Preparedness and awareness are essential to survive a long-term power outage.
Have an emergency kit
Assemble an emergency preparedness kit that will keep your family safe in case of a storm. Responding to a disaster requires creating a kit containing a self-powered radio, canned food, first aid kits, and medicines. Place these items in a medium-sized container and store them in a closet or safe room to provide shelter during a storm.
A self-powered radio and cell phone can help communicate with the emergency team, such as insurance companies and health facilities. You can also use it to get in touch with the rescue team. Therefore, a mobile receiver allows you to monitor storm activity and determine whether to leave the shelter base.
Bottom line
After an emergency alert for a storm, you need proper planning to avoid adverse effects. The preventive measures include having a sheltered area to seek safety, such as an interior part of the room or basement. Ensure you have an emergency survival kit containing all the necessities, such as enough water, a radio, a cell phone for communication, and a first aid kit. You can learn more about preventive measures to be taken in case of a storm.
