Storm Gertrude has left over thirteen thousand homes without power in Ireland. ‘Near-hurricane winds’ battered vast areas of the country on Friday morning. Storms of this magnitude are unfortunately common across the globe. As such, it is always a good idea to make sure you are as prepared as possible. If a hurricane hits, you want to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. There is little we can do about hurricanes and storms. But we can do a great deal to protect ourselves, with a little preparation. How can you be best prepared, just in case the worst happens?
Firstly, it is a good idea to put together a supply kit. Do this as soon as possible so you know that it is done. A fully stocked supply kit should contain a number of items. The essentials include: a torch, batteries, money and first aid supplies. Any first aid kit should include a variety of plasters, antibacterial wipes or gel, bandages and gauze. This is at the very least, but other items are advisable too. Painkillers may come in handy, along with scissors and some antiseptic cream. Once you have your fully-stocked supply kit, make sure to keep it somewhere safe and memorable. Put it somewhere logical where you would expect to find it when the time comes.
It is also imperative that you have a well worked-out plan for if a hurricane does hit. Remember that your friends and family may not all be together when disaster strikes. In fact, it is unlikely. Working out a way to find each other before the event is a very good idea. Remember too that mobile phones may not function in such a circumstance. Ensure that you plan for all sorts of situations. For example, you might not be at home when a hurricane hits, or you might not have enough time to get home. Take all these into consideration.
There are plenty of ways to protect your home before the event, too. Investing in some shutters for your windows could save lives. You could also consider installing extra protection on any external doors. Adding more bolts, for example, could mean all the difference. Also, consider hurricane straps, which are designed to literally hold the roof to the walls of your house. It is also worth getting any building insured – this is equally true for your business as it is for your home. Hurricane business insurance is an essential measure to take for your business, just in case the worst happens.
If the worst does happen, remember to stay indoors. Also be sure to stay far away from windows. This is in case shattered glass goes flying your way. Ensure that you keep the television or the radio on. In an emergency situation, information and directions will be given via public broadcasting. It is also worth trying to conserve energy. Turning your freezer to its lowest setting will mean that the food will last longer. And don’t open it unless you really need to.
With a little preparation, you can protect yourself and your family as much as possible if a hurricane does hit your area.