
It is important to differentiate various storm types including tornadoes, heavy rain, storm surges, hurricanes, ice storms, blizzards, hails and thunderstorms. Remember that they are problematic because they can lead to hazards and threaten both properties and lives.
As soon as you notice something, you should check out the official website of National Weather Service by clicking here, so that you can determine the extent of a problem.
At the same time, you should keep the crank radio as well as battery on hand, because the common problem is power outages during these situations. It is understood that you will have the responsibility of protecting your family and household among other things.
You will be able to reduce the effects of severe storms by preparing yourself in advance. We are talking about things such as understanding the risks that may happen, create a family emergency plan and get an emergency kit that will help you survive with ease.
The entire process seems problematic, which is why we decided to present you with a guide that will help you along the way.
1.Understand the Risks
It is important to prepare yourself thoroughly for the storm and to learn the risk that is particular for the place you live in. If you just moved in, you should talk with the neighbors to determine the possibilities that may happen.
At the same time, you can find numerous online resources that will allow you to analyze past situations so that you can see in which periods severe storms tend to happen.
Things to Do Before
- You need to cut down dead trees and dead branches so that you can prevent the damage of falling onto your household during the severe weather.
- At the same time, you need to make sure that your roof is properly maintained.
- Create an emergency kit
- Clean downpipes, drains and gutters to avoid household floods.
If the storm is closing in, you need to listen to the warnings by using the radio or other forms of communication. Remember that during the harsh weather, electricity and mobile devices will be out of service, which is why you will need a radio to listen to frequencies that will stay intact.
Understand the facts about hurricanes by visiting this site: https://www.forbes.com/sites/rogerpielke/2019/11/24/just-the-facts-on-hurricanes/ for more information.
Check the forecast before heading out, and avoid going on the boats during the storms. If you are on the water, it is vital to reach the shore as soon as possible. Besides, you should secure everything that may turn loose or blow towards your household.
Remember that flying objects can damage your property and injure people around you.
2.Create an Emergency Strategy
You need to create a contingency plan that will help your family know how to act in case of an emergency. It is vital to identify the safe areas where you can meet during the harsh weather.
Talk about things that may happen if not everyone’s at home, or if you are at work when it happens. Always create a list of things that you need to do beforehand.
Also, you need to store the essential documentation including passports, birth certificates, insurance policies, financial documents in the waterproof container. You need to write down the entire plan and exercise it at least once a year.
Always make sure that everyone understands each step before the storm happens.
3.Create an Emergency Kit
The emergency kit should feature basic things that you need to maintain self-sufficiency for at least three days after the storm hits. We are talking about things such as battery-operated radios, flashlights, water, and food. You should learn about most common storm types so that you can prepare yourself properly beforehand.
The main idea is to organize you completely. Of course, do not overstock it, but make it simple to carry. You should use a duffel bag or backpack and place it in an accessible place.
Basic Things You Need
- Food such as energy bars, canned food, and dried food.
- At least two liters of water per person but include small bottles that you can carry with ease in case of evacuation.
- Battery-powered flashlight with additional batteries
- Manual can opener
- Battery-powered radio with additional batteries
- Prescription meds, equipment, and infant formulas
- First aid kit is necessary
- Cash in small bills including change for payphones and ten dollar bills
- Additional keys to your house and car