Hurricane Preparedness
A typical hurricane wind can reach up to 320km/h, which is strong enough to demolish a building and uproot fully-grown trees. Usually, hurricanes occur in the sea. However, the strong winds may progress toward land, and cause a “storm surge” (raised water levels with strong waves crashing on dry land).
Is hurricane preparedness optional? In 2017, 2018, and 2019, hurricanes caused the deaths of 147, 18, and 15 people respectively. Preparing for hurricanes ensure that you can make it to safety on time. Everyone in the family should have their essentials packed such that you would just pick the items and leave home in case of a cyclone emergency.
The primary hurricane preparedness entails:
1. Food and Water
The storm surge may trap you in a building or a deserted high ground for over a week. Given that floods damage communication and road infrastructure, ensure to stock adequate food and food to last you up to two weeks. The water will have subsided in 14 days, or help will come.
Are you counting on hunting or fishing during an emergency? Cooking could be impossible. Ensure to pack ready-cooked meals that you can comfortably eat cold. Canned foods contain preservatives that allow you to store the diets for several weeks or months.
2. Light
Hurricanes damage electrical infrastructure, or you might be forced to spend a night out. Hence, you will need a source of light. Your cell phone can be a source of light, but the power will not last you long. Ensure to pack matches, candles, flashlights, and charged batteries in your emergency backpack. Store the bag where you can access it fast, even in darkness. Also, you should invest in a portable solar pack as it will provide you with the power to recharge your electronic gadgets such as cell phones and batteries as you wait for the storm to subside. The batteries for lighting a tent for an entire night often drain fast, solar panels help recharge them.
Although solar systems are pricey, you could still use the appliances to charge your devices in non-emergency – it is an excellent approach to reduce electric rates in CT. The panel will not be a waste of money, even if you will never encounter a hurricane. You can use the solar panel as your power backup in your home.
3. Emergency Power Management
Ensure you know where to switch off the power connection in case of an emergency. When you are expecting hurricane disconnect, unessential electronics. You should also follow the news and keep the emergency channels open so that you can turn off electricity if the emergency administrators give the directive.
It is also advisable that you purchase quality surge protectors. The devices prevent damage on electronics in case the cables short circuit or the restored energy supplies have excess voltage.
4. Pack Essential Medication
Do you suffer from a preexisting condition? Ensure to stock enough drugs supply for a month or two. For instance, diabetic patients should pack sufficient insulin. The drugs are essential to extend your life. Besides, pack essential drugs such as antibiotics, quinine, and painkillers. Other essentials include bandages, antiseptic, syringes, needles, and other prescription supplies you need to keep you healthy.
5. Heat and Shelter
Remember to pack a lighter for making fire once you evacuate, especially if you are going to desolated high grounds without essential emergency services. A fire will keep you warm after a hurricane. Similarly, a portable tent would be necessary to protect you against the harsh climate.
The Bottom Line Storm preparedness is crucial to enable you to cope with difficulties associated with a storm surge. If you survive drowning, you will need food, medical supplies, and safe temporary shelter to help you stay safe after escaping to a safe zon