How to Stay Safe During Storm Bert

2 min read 23-11-2024

Storm Bert is predicted to bring significant challenges, and preparation is key to ensuring your safety and minimizing potential damage. This guide offers practical advice on how to stay safe during the storm.

Before the Storm Hits

Prepare Your Home:

Secure your property: Bring loose objects indoors, such as patio furniture, garbage cans, and anything that could become airborne and cause damage. Reinforce any weak points in your home’s structure, such as loose shingles or damaged siding.
Protect your windows: Board up windows or cover them with storm shutters to prevent damage from high winds and flying debris. Taping windows is generally ineffective against strong winds.
Stock up on supplies: Gather essential supplies such as bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, and a battery-powered radio. Consider having extra medications on hand.
Charge devices: Ensure your cell phones, laptops, and other electronic devices are fully charged, as power outages are likely.

Create a Communication Plan:

Identify a safe place: Designate a meeting place for your family in case you get separated during the storm. This should be a location easily accessible to everyone.
Establish contact points: Determine how you will contact family and friends during and after the storm. Have backup contact information in case primary methods of communication fail.
Inform others: Let friends, family, and neighbors know your plans and whereabouts.

During the Storm

Stay Indoors:

Avoid unnecessary travel: Stay indoors during the storm. Driving during severe weather conditions is extremely dangerous.
Stay away from windows: Avoid areas near windows and doors, which are most vulnerable to damage.
Monitor weather reports: Keep an eye on the weather and heed all warnings and advisories issued by local authorities.
Be prepared for power outages: Power outages are common during storms. Have alternative light sources and a backup power supply for essential devices ready.

Emergency Procedures:

Know your evacuation route: If you live in an area prone to flooding or other storm-related hazards, know your evacuation route and be prepared to leave immediately if necessary.
Listen for warnings: Pay close attention to weather reports and emergency alerts for instructions and updates on the storm.
Report any damage: After the storm has passed, report any damage to your property to your insurance company and local authorities.

After the Storm

Assess the damage:

Check for injuries: Once the storm has passed, carefully check yourself and your family for injuries.
Inspect your home: Assess your property for damage, but prioritize safety. If there is significant damage, do not enter until it has been deemed safe by professionals.
Report damage: Contact your insurance company to report any damage.
Avoid downed power lines: Never approach or touch downed power lines, report them immediately to your utility company.

Remember: Staying informed and prepared is crucial to staying safe during Storm Bert. Prioritize safety, and follow instructions from local authorities. This information is for guidance only and should not replace professional advice.