Storm Damage Preparedness

6/3/2019 (Permalink)

If a storm hits be prepared.

MAKE A PLAN

Water

• Water will keep you alive. If you have enough water, you can live on half of your normal food intake. Make sure to store at least one gallon of water per person per day and store enough water to last two weeks. 
• People in hot environments, children, people who are ill and nursing mothers should store more.
• Rotate your water supply every six months
• Other sources of water in your home: water heater, ice cubes, pipes and toilet tank (not the bowl)Unlike water, food can be rationed. Store at least a three to five-day supply of non-perishable food in a dry place where the temperature is not above 70 degrees. PetsBut you should know safe places to keep your pets if you have to evacuate with them. Where are hotels and motels outside of your area that accept pets? What friends or family members could keep them for you? Which boarding facilities, veterinarians or shelters could be used?Your water heater can be a critical source of water in an emergency, but only if it’s still standing. Go to your home improvement store of choice and buy the metal straps to secure the water heater to nearby studs.GasWhen you should shut off your gas meter:
• If you have natural gas coming into your home, it’s easy to turn off, but not so much for turning it back on. Only qualified people should turn gas back on.
• A falling water heater can break gas lines and water lines or spill your water.
• Utilities
• Pets are an important member of your family. Plan for them as well. Remember that emergency shelters typically do not allow animals. Only service animals are allowed in shelters.
• Select foods that require little or no preparation, water or refrigeration. Select foods that are high in calories, nutritious, compact and lightweight. Choose foods your family will eat.
• Food

• You smell natural gas
• You hear gas leaking
• There is a fire (unless shutting off the gas would jeopardize your safety)
• If you need to shut off the gas, use a wrench to turn the valve a quarter turn in either direction
• Take some time to become familiar with which utilities enter your home and where they can be shut off. As you practice emergency plans, locate and map the gas, water and electricity mains. During family drills, go through the movements, but do not practice shutting off gas lines.