HOW TO WEATHER A STORM!
Prepare an emergency kit . In addition to bandages, cleaning solution, a whistle, fully charged torch, water container container with chocolate can be added , if stranded.
A plan is necessary as there won't be time to think. So everyone should know what to do.
Keep candles, match boxes, lighters, small pick axes close by in case of wall collapses. Keep extra prepared food and water.
Have a battery-powered radio as part of your emergency kit, in case of power failure and mobile networks go down.
Recharge all your mobiles, your power banks, laptops, top up your mobile data.
Keep mobile power intact, by avoiding games, YouTube, except to keep updated on weather data and communication.
If your power is low, send messages to people when in trouble with your location. Phoning up takes more power, so save power.
Be prepared to have no electricity, or mobile cover during and after the cyclone.
If your home is in a low-lying area, decide where will you and your family will go in case of storm surge.
Are you adequately insured? Make sure it covers you for storm surge, flooding and cyclone damage, including clean-up and debris removal.
Check your roof and walls and repair any loose tiles, eaves or roof screws.
Ensure windows are fitted with shutters or metal screens and that shutters and locks are working.
Trim any branches and treetops hanging over your house and clear gutters of leaves and bill boards.
Make sure your household is familiar with broadcast when a cyclone is 12 hours or less away.
Explain to children how they must quickly follow your instructions during emergency. Make it sound like a game, as not to scare them.
If you are the head of family, you should leave word as to who will take over the rescue in case you become incapacitated.
Decide how you to look after your pets and animals and what to do if you have to leave them behind. Pets manage better than humans in natural disasters. They have an extra sense.
They're generally not allowed to go with you to a temporary evacuation shelter so you'll need to decide where they'll shelter during the cyclone.
Think about what items your pets may need and include them in your emergency kit.
Always help your neighbours, shelter those who are affected.
Lots of agencies and government rescue services will reach you much quicker than you think, in case you are stranded!
