Prepare for the worst
Extreme weather is the new normal in the United States. Whether it’s Katrina, Sandy, or Irene, the Oklahoma tornadoes, floods, heat waves, droughts, or fires, the impact has been intense and it’s been devastating.
Most surveys report that Americans are not doing enough to prepare for the next disaster. And no group is more vulnerable than first responders. Your job means when disaster strikes you cannot stay home and project your families so it’s key you take steps to make sure your loved ones are safe during the next super storm, floor, twister or fire. Here’s some things you can do right now to get ready.
Charge electronic devices: During Hurricane Sandy cell phone users were most likely to retain service. Get enough chargers to charge more than one device at a time.
Get a head-lamp flashlight which leaves your hands free.
Fill your cars with gas.
Think about buying a generator.
Have cash on hand. 20% of the people impacted by Sandy could not use their banks and ran out of money. During Katrina that percentage was much higher.
Get extra food that won’t spoil – peanut better, canned fruits, vegtables and fruits, cheese, bread and crackers, tuna etc.
Have at least ten gallons of water on hand.
Make sure you have pet food, toilet paper, and other essentials.
Have lots of flashlights on hand with a good stock of new batteries.
Set your freezer at 0 degrees and the refrigerator below 40 degrees. Freeze containers of water to keep things cool if power goes out or find out where you can buy ice blocks if the power goes out.
If the storm hits and phone is out, try sending a text – that takes a lot less power than making a call. Keep your refrigerator door shut and throw out perishable food if power is out more than 4 hours. Photograph all damage and keep all receipts for expenses related to protecting you against storm damage.
If you have trouble with your insurance company, ask to see the exclusions in writing. Call your state insurance commission. Most have a special department to handle storm related inquiries.
If you have any tips to prepare for the next storm, share them with your fellow officers below.