Inspect your house and repair the unstable parts. Harvest the crops that may be ready for market. Keep flashlights, candles and battery-powered radios within easy reach. And if you must evacuate your home, avoid the way that leads to the river.
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) gave these helpful tips on how people could survive calamities unharmed as the typhoon season begins with stronger storms expected.
“It’s the beginning of the typhoon season and the Red Cross is preparing its assets on the ground to orchestrate an immediate response whenever necessary,” PRC secretary general Gwendolyn Pang said in a statement.
Pang said emergency response units had been advised to stand by for possible deployment as rescue equipment like rubber boats, generators, vehicles and fuel were readied for prompt dispatch.
She also advised the public to be alert to weather conditions so they won’t be caught off guard when danger comes.
“The Red Cross is here for the people, especially those who are vulnerable. Food, water, shelter, clothing and medical care will surely be provided to those who will be affected by flooding and other typhoon-related emergencies,” she said.
To help people survive typhoons, the PRC issued practical tips on how to prepare before, during and after a storm.
Before a typhoon makes landfall, households must store sufficient supplies of clean water and food that do not need cooking. They must update themselves on the latest weather report.
Pets must be kept in a safe place. Fishermen should take their boats to secure areas.
“Should you need to evacuate, bring clothes, a first-aid kit, candles or flashlights, battery-powered radios and food, among other things,” the PRC advised.
While the storm is raging around you, the PRC advised remaining indoors and listening to the weather forecast and other storm news. If safe drinking water is not available, one must boil water for at least 20 minutes and place it in a covered container afterward.
The PRC warned against fire hazards like lighted candles and gas lamps.
“Do not wade through floodwater to avoid being electrocuted and contracting disease,” it said.
If there is a need to leave one’s house and move to an evacuation center, the PRC advised the following:
— Close the windows and turn off the main power switch;
— Bring only needed appliances and belongings;
— Evacuate calmly;
— Avoid the way leading to the river.
After the typhoon, the public is advised to follow these tips:
— If your house was damaged, make sure it is safe and stable before you enter it;
— Beware of dangerous animals such as snakes that may have entered your house;
— Watch out for live wires and outlets submerged in water;
— Report damaged electrical cables and fallen electric posts to authorities;
— Do not let water accumulate in tires, cans or pots to avoid mosquitos breeding.
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Tips to keep you and your families safe during a typhoon