How to Prepare for a Storm

Preparing for a storm requires knowing what to do before it strikes. Following local emergency officials’ advice is vital to your safety. Give yourself ample time to evacuate if necessary. If the storm is predicted to cause road closures, map alternate routes. Before the storm hits, secure your home and take measures to protect items that can become dangerous projectiles. Make sure to check stormwater pipes to ensure that they are not backed up or leaking.

Preparing for a hurricane

Preparing for a hurricane begins by gathering information from credible sources, such as the governor’s office, local health agencies, and the National Weather Service. Limit your exposure to news reports about damage and other important announcements. Make connections with family and friends. While you may need to rely on electronics, knowing that you are prepared is a great comfort. Also, make sure you know how to get to a higher ground during a hurricane.

In your home, prepare for a hurricane by securing the roof, cutting trees, clearing gutters, and bringing in loose items. Pack a portable charger for your cell phone. Bring important family documents and prescription medicines. Also, pack baby supplies such as diapers, wipes, and a toothbrush. In addition, remember to bring your pets.

Checking stormwater pipes

Before rainy season arrives, you must ensure your stormwater pipes are functioning properly. They are usually made of PVC, and can become clogged over time, causing flooding inside your property. Therefore, it is important to check your pipes regularly, especially if you own an older property. If you notice slow water recesion after a storm, the pipes are likely blocked. If you find breaks in the pipes, they may be attracting tree roots and causing a flood. Taking proactive measures will ensure that you have sufficient freeboard and can avoid flood damage and property loss.

Before a hurricane strikes, check the condition of stormwater pipes to ensure they are ready for its effects. The EPA has provided a checklist to help property owners prepare for a storm, but you can perform the task yourself. To prepare for a storm, remove debris from catchbasins, and ensure that they are properly capped. Inspect the stormwater pipes to ensure that they are free from cracks and holes. If you notice any leaks or damage, contact your local stormwater company or utility company immediately.

Staying away from windows

The hurricane season typically runs from June 1 to November 30. If you live in an area where storms are likely to hit, you should consider taking precautions such as staying indoors and away from windows. During a storm, it is critical that you avoid high-rise buildings, as the higher the floor, the greater the wind speed. Although some people may believe that masking tape and other simple measures can help prevent windows from breaking, these measures are not effective.

The dangers of a hurricane are obvious. Shattered glass and flying debris can cause considerable damage to your home. Even lightning can travel through your plumbing systems and be lethal in the wrong place. While you may think it is safe to go outside, a storm can come very quickly and leave you in the dark. If you do happen to be inside, stay away from windows and any other openings. You should also turn off all electrical devices and make sure to disconnect your utilities.

Buying gas during a state of emergency

If you are preparing for a hurricane or other severe storm, you’ll need to purchase gas before the event to ensure you can continue your daily routine. Before the storm, make sure you have enough money in your pocket and plan to visit an ATM or gas station to fill up. You’ll need hard cash, since credit cards may not work during an emergency. In the event of a natural disaster, it will be difficult to get gas, but this should not prevent you from buying gas.

If you’re a natural gas customer, you should turn off your main meter valve if you’re preparing for a hurricane. If you don’t know where your main gas meter is, make sure to check that it is visible. Leaving a hidden meter on may cause damage to other electrical equipment.