Aug 07 , 2023

Surviving the Storm: How to Prepare for Natural Disasters

Natural disasters strike hard, from hurricanes in the Atlantic to floods in India. Even with proper warnings and forecasts, the amount of damage these disasters do is unimaginable. From the loss of life to the destruction of properties worth millions, floods, hurricanes, landslides, and more can do everything. To ensure the safety of ourselves and our families, preparing for the disaster is necessary. This includes creating emergency survival food kits, stocking up on water, clearing tree branches that risk the safety of our home, and more. People like us who live in disaster-prone areas must prepare for natural disasters. Here are a few trips we use to ensure our safety and the safety of people around us.

Always tune into local news

We always tune into local news using satellite radio or a local TV station. It will keep us appraised of the situation. It will inform us about the storm and let us know if it is progressing or slowing down. Listen to the news before the storm hits us, and we should keep listening to any information we can get our hands on. Also, paying heed to the information we get is crucial.

Unplug everything

Living in an area that floods often requires vigilance. We should unplug all electrical appliances, devices, and more in such cases. Moreover, the better idea is to move them to higher ground. That way, we can be assured we will be safe and there is no danger of electrocution or fire.

Stock up on emergency food

When preparing for a disaster, the essential thing on our emergency list should always be an emergency survival food supply kit. We need to prepare a survival food kit that is nutritious and balanced. It should have enough protein-rich food items and other stuff high in nutrients. Lastly, buy non-perishable food items and an emergency survival food kit. We should buy food items that require little to no refrigeration and cooking. It is a necessary step because, during any disaster, electricity goes out first. Also, keep a stock of water. We should have at least three gallons of water per person.

Ensure there is enough gas in the car

We might need to evacuate during the storms or any disaster we are currently weathering. Thus, filling up the car with enough gas is necessary. We should fill up as soon as we hear information about any upcoming storm. Keep extra gas with you, too.

Keep away from water after a disaster

When hurricanes, tornadoes, or heavy rains hit us, we should avoid going to areas with heavy or flood water. These two bodies of water have many mosquitoes breeding in them. It means it can carry diseases like the Nile Virus. Moreover, this stormwater brings a wide variety of diseases with it. Thus, it is best to stay away from them. Also, remove all pots, utensils, or anything else from the exterior, as it becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Stop using tap water for a while

During rain or hurricanes, it is best to avoid tap water. The germs or bacteria in the flood or hurricane can contaminate the water lines. The tap water we get may have the same bacteria, leading to water-borne diseases like cholera. That is why stocking up on water beforehand is necessary. We cannot go to the supermarket to buy clean drinking water during storms or other disasters. Thus, stocking up is crucial, as we cannot live without water.

Prepare the animals

We love our pets and do not want to loose them. Therefore, we must ensure that all animals, whether pets or wild, have tags. In case they disappear or get lost, we can get them back.

Save the battery

Our phone is our only lifeline when we get stuck during storms or disasters alone or in a remote place. We rely on it to get news, call people for help, and more. Thus, it is necessary to ensure that the phone’s battery lasts long. Turn off Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS, and any other location services. Even at home, save the phone’s battery, as it keeps you entertained and safe. Moreover, we should also keep a few portable chargers with us.

Save important documents

We must keep our documents safe. Keep it in a zip-lock bag in the freezer to keep it safe from harm.

End note

Food for emergency survival, water, first aid, batteries, and more help us stay safe and secure. Disasters can last a few days, and the rescue operation and follow-up can take longer. That can mean a limited supply of food, water, and other amenities. We might even have to live in shelters. So, knowing the routes is essential, too. Use the above tips to stay secure.