Thanks to modern technology, we all know when storms are coming and we generally have an idea of how strong they are going to be, but nature works in mysterious ways and can bring a whirlwind of disasters along with them.
Here are some essentials for surviving a big storm:
- Glow in the dark flashlights.
Attaching glow in the dark tape to your flashlights can make it easier for you to spot them if the power were to go out during a massive storm. - How not to get struck indoors.
Being in your home is the safest place to be during an electrical storm, but here are a couple things you might not know that can keep you safe even indoors. Its best to stay away from all water (taking baths and showers) and appliances until the storm passes. Lightning can still get into your conductive paths in your house so talking on a corded phone or working on a desktop computer during this kind of storm is just as dangerous as being outside. - Avoid a flooded basement.
The water in a flooded basement could possibly be electrified by your homes electrical system. Instead of finding out for yourself, call your utility company and have the water shut off and you are good to go. Remember once the basement is drained, electrical cords might still be wet so refrain from touching those and wait to connect your basements power until your power company gives you the go ahead. - Keep your wheels on dry land.
Driving through a few inches of water might seem like nothing but it still kills people every year. Flood water hides washouts, so you could go from 3 in. of water to over 6 in. in the blink of an eye. If you see a flooded road, it might be best to just turn around. - Have cash on you.
During a blackout, stores might be open but they won’t be able to process any credit cards purchases. Always keep emergency cash on you. - Invest in a carbon monoxide detector.
Blackouts can lead to carbon monoxide deaths because people crank up things like fireplaces, gas stoves, and any type of heater. It’s okay to use these heat sources but place a battery detector in the room to prevent any exposure. - Gas up your vehicles.
Even if you aren’t planning on going anywhere, your car is a critical part of your emergency survival kit. It’s your transportation, the charging station for any cell phones and maybe the only heat that you have access to. - Get a radio.
Phone and internet systems will go down if there is a power outage during a bad storm. A battery-powered radio could be your only source of weather and emergency information. You can get a battery-powered radio at a little over $20 at a discount store. - Fill the grill tank.
Blackouts can take away some of life’s pleasures like a hot meal. Consider filling up your grill tank so you can at least have a hot meal until the power comes back on. - After the power goes out.
Once the power does go out, there are a couple things you need to do to ensure your safety. Unplug everything, don’t use candles, keep the fridge closed, tap your water heater, and don’t take chances.
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