Storms can be destructive depending on the kind of level they possess. While it’s good to have faith in God, sometimes He wants us to prepare for the worst.
Remember when God gave Noah a warning before he brought on the great flood? If He hadn’t warned Noah, there wouldn’t be any humans left after the storm subsided!
If your area is currently preparing for a storm, here are some handy tips for thorough preparation:
Before the storm:
1. Listen to the news. Check for reliable sources in the report through the TV, radio, and internet. Most channels have weather reporters that offer up-to-date information on an upcoming storm.
2. Make sure your vehicles have enough gas and extra fuel. Certain places may require you to evacuate out of state. When this happens, make sure you have enough power in your car and handy car tools for emergencies.
3. Cover all windows and door openings with shutters and shielding materials. These protective devices prevent damage to your doors, windows, and home interior.
4. Prepare an emergency survival kit. Storms can last for a certain period. Depending on the storm’s level, things may take some time to return to normal. As a rule of thumb, it helps to pack some of these essentials:
- A tent
- A first-aid kit
- Canned goods
- Car repair tools and cooking necessities (can openers and scissors included)
- A lighter or matches
- Flashlights with batteries
- A portable charger for your devices
- A portable generator (if you can afford it)
- A carry cage for your pets. (Make sure to get them microchipped and have their identification labels on their collars)
- Extra clothes
- Blankets and umbrellas
- Water and water filters
- Extra money
- Your essential documents (Birth records, driver’s licenses, credit and debit cards, etc.)
5. Put away outdoor furniture and objects like garden tools in your shed or garage. Remember to secure your garbage cans with a rope or a heavy cinderblock.
During the storm:
1. Listen for updates on the radio, tv, and internet. If the power dies down, use your devices for updates but remember to save battery.
2. Follow instructions from local officials.
3. If you’re evacuating, leave as early as possible during daylight. Stay with friends or relatives or go to a public shelter outside a flood zone. If you live in a mobile home, leave immediately.
4. Notify neighbors or family members of your evacuation plans.
5. Keep your pets inside their carry cages. Wrap them in a blanket to keep them warm.
6. If you’re staying at home, ensure you’re staying in a secure building. Check out for any emergency exits in case you need to leave asap.
7. Turn off utilities if ordered by authorities.
8. Turn off propane tanks.
9. Unplug small appliances.
10. Fill your bathtub and large buckets with water for sanitary uses.
11. Stay away from windows and doors when winds become stronger. You can stay in a small room, a closet, or a hallway.
12. Close all interior doors. Secure and brace external doors. You can also push furniture against doors to keep them from breaking into the house.
13. Evacuate if you live in any of the following. These places are more susceptible to wind and water damage.
- Mobile homes
- Places near bodies of water like a river, an offshore island, or a floodplain
- High-rise buildings
After the storm:
1. Keep connected if possible. If the power is out, look for higher grounds and wait for a rescue team.
2. Wait for instructions before venturing outside.
3. Avoid driving into flooded areas.
4. Always stay on firm ground. Do not venture into moving waters. Standing waters can also be dangerous because you risk getting shocked by underground or fallen power lines.
5. Check for any damages inside the house first.
6. Do not drink or prepare food with tap water until you are sure it is not contaminated.
7. Be cautious when using a chainsaw when cutting fallen trees.
Storms can be frightening. Fortunately, God is stronger and more significant than any storm. While keeping your faith and trust in Him is essential, it helps to prepare just in case. I am forever grateful that I managed to weather through Hurricane Katrina, and I hope this will be useful for anyone reading this.
Cheryl Hawkins 