As children, many sang the nursery rhyme, “Rain, Rain Go Away,” but at the time we had no inkling of the fact that torrential downpours and other calamities were even a possibility. Though meteorologists give their best guesstimate, no one knows for certain when disaster in the form of severe weather may befall them. But, you can be sure of what to do well in advance.

Though meteorologists give their best guesstimate, no one knows for certain when disaster in the form of severe weather may befall them. 

Hoping Against Hope

For most, the core of our life is our family. That’s why we need to have a family plan already in place, just in case we are faced with tragedy. Take note that although we wish they were, our loved ones may not all be assembled in the event of an emergency. So, it’s best to know where each family member is, will be, their contact information and how you will meet-up with each other once the storm blows over.

We are so busy with our day-to-day routines. But, you should always know where the safe havens are in your home; this could mean the difference of life and death. The basement, bathroom or closet of your home just may be the perfect place for you and your family members to brave the storm. If there are no identifiable safe places within your home, you can benefit from knowing what shelters may be available to you in time of need, before hand.

Even after spending hours watching The Weather Channel and preparing for a disaster, we can never be too sure of the outcome of severe weather. Stay in the loop of what is going on and keep abreast of the situation by monitoring the media, even if it is via social media or by a weather app, where you will receive up-to-the-minute weather notifications, to track where a storm is. Also, be aware of the aftermath your area could suffer. Are downed trees likely to be a possibility? Downed wires? Flooding, maybe? Your elected official may declare an emergency and advise of an evacuation, as well.

Stay in the loop of what’s going on and keep abreast of the situation by monitoring the media, to track where a storm is. 

This next area may cause many to panic, but know how to shut off your utilities. This includes your power, gas and water, too. While we are on the subject, you need to have the proper tools to do so. You may need a wrench, ladder and other items, keep them within reach, so you can quickly react to your specific situation.

Many are only used to packing bags when they are about to take a vacation or go on a trip. However, a bag or emergency supply kit containing the essentials should be close by. What are the necessities? Water, non-perishable food items, candles, matches, flashlights, batteries, a radio; you get the gist of what is being said. It may not be such a bad idea to keep the same items in the trunk of your car, either.

The last thing we want to do is place a call to the insurance adjuster. Nonetheless, there is a possibility that we may have to. For this very reason, it’s to your benefit to stay in the loop about what types of events and kinds of damages are covered by your insurance policy. For example is ‘acts of God‘ a component of your coverage? Likewise, it’s important to safeguard insurance policies, important documents and other valuables because you will need them to be readily available later on down the line.

Out of Clear and Present Danger

Being prepared way before a storm has a chance to hit can lessen the toll it may take on both you and your family. Nonetheless, before you know it, it will be back to business as usual. Stay safe!

Web Links:

– http://www.ready.gov/severe-weather;

– http://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/act_of_god

-Kimberly Williams