Before, during, and after the typhoon hits, staying ready and prepared saves you your time, energy, and lives. Here are some tips to prepare yourselves and your family
Given the frequent storms that have historically affected the Philippines, being calamity-ready is of utmost importance. That definitely means preparation is paramount. From planning escape routes to evacuating and coping after disaster strikes, here are some tips to ensure you and your family are prepared before, during, and after a calamity hits, especially with Typhoon Leon already making its way.
RELATED: A List of Donation Drives For Victims of Typhoon Kristine
Before
Have A Plan
Where should the family meet if all members were in their respective workplaces and schools? Who would be in charge of bringing the medicines? Is the family familiar with the emergency exit routes of the condominium they’re living in? Do they know the nearest evacuation place within the area?
These are the questions you should be asking yourselves and your family to ensure safety. Although weather patterns can often be anticipated, some calamities like earthquakes and volcano eruptions will mostly happen spontaneously. To be prepared, it’s best to gather the family and discuss contingency plans when such calamities happen. With Typhoon Leon’s movement going northwest and with the possibility of turning into a super typhoon, those at northern Luzon must be prepared once the rain starts pouring.
Emergency Go Kit
An emergency kit should be equipped with essential first aid supplies, personal hygiene items, a flashlight, batteries, rope, a whistle, non-perishable food and water, a small pair of scissors, pen and paper, a map, and a portable battery charger for your cellphone.
Make sure also that the emergency kit is within reach, easily accessible, and can be grabbed at any time.
Stay Updated
It always pays to watch or listen to the news, especially if the location you’re in is prone to flooding, landslides, and other common disasters. This way, you’ll be one step ahead, prepared for any trouble that might come your way.
Typhoon Leon has been making its way to the Philippines with some parts of Luzon already at Signal No. 1 and that the typhoon is moving northwestern of the country, but it also might affect the rest of the Philippines as well. For any other changes in the weather, you can check Zoom Earth to track the incoming storms or Windy.
Charge Your Devices
Once you’re updated with the news and prepared for any typhoons that may come your way, be sure to charge your phones and power banks. Due to the harsh weather, blackouts will most likely happen, and you will need your phone to contact for help.
During
Evacuate Immediately
In the event of a calamity, remember the plan you and your family prepared. Stick to the plan, grab your emergency kits, and immediately make your exit to a safe location. A lot will be happening all at once during a disaster, so it’s best to leave everything unnecessary for your survival. Hold on to your children, carry your pets, and evacuate as soon as you can.
Stay Alert
Don’t panic. Getting stuck during a disaster is a terrifying experience, and it’s natural to feel scared, but for the sake of yourself and your family, it’s best to stay calm with a focused mind. Preserve your energy, use your whistle to get help, and help your family to remain calm.
After
Seek Medical Attention If Needed
Once the disaster is over, evaluate yourself and your family. Check if there are any injuries within your family. Apply first aid if needed, and then seek medical attention from the nearest hospital or medical clinic.
Help Others Cope
Disasters aren’t easy to deal with. In fact, it’s a traumatic experience for all the people affected—whether it’s a supertyphoon, flood, an earthquake, no one wants to go through a calamity. Unfortunately, the Philippines has a record of experiencing all these and more, which is why it is important to be patient and compassionate with the victims.
FEATURED IMAGE AND PHOTOS: ENVATO, PHILIPPINE RED CROSS, PAG-ASA (via Facebook)
