Things to prepare before typhoon strikes

Super Typhoon Pablo (Bopha) is approaching now in Mindanao,Philippines maintaining its strength and threatening Surigao and Davao Oriental. Here are some tips as to how are we going to keep ourselves safe from this killer storm.

1. • 1
     Determine whether you can remain in your home during the typhoon. You may be able to ride out a weak typhoon with a small storm surge but will need to evacuate for stronger storms. Listen for warnings from your local officials or weather personnel in situations where evacuation is ordered. Note the evacuation routes and plan to leave early.
   • 2
     Make lists of television and radio stations where you can get storm information, phone numbers to call in case of emergencies and locations of storm shelters. Get directions for the emergency shelters.
   • 3
     Designate a location for you and your family members to meet if you get separated and the number of an out-of-state relative to call to say everyone is safe. That out-of-state person starts the phone tree to others on your list after learning you are okay.
   • 4
     Find a place to take your pets where they will be safe if you have to evacuate. Most storm shelters won't allow pets.
   • 5
     Remember to shut off electricity, water and gas to your home before evacuating.

   Assemble a Typhoon Kit

   • 6
     Pack food that doesn't have to be refrigerated or cooked along with disposable plates, bowls, forks, knives and spoons. Each person and pet in the home should have enough to eat for three days.
   • 7
     Store water. Each person needs three gallons of clean water to drink and to use for washing. Pets also need water.
   • 8
     Add flashlights, oil lamps, lanterns and candles, along with extra batteries, matches and fuel.
   • 9
     Include a first aid kit in your typhoon kit.
   • 10
     Remember to pack board games, card decks and a battery-operated radio.
   • 11
     Throw in a box of garbage bags and paper towels.

   Pack Your Bags

   • 12
     Pack a small bag or backpack for each person in the home. It should include clothes and toiletries for three days.
   • 13
     Bundle a blanket and pillow for each person and place them in garbage bags (to keep them dry) to take along if evacuating.
   • 14
     Include a small bag of photos and documents you can't afford to have destroyed, such as wills and wedding albums.
   • 15
     Place everyone's bag and bed bundle near the door so they can be quickly loaded into the car if you decide to evacuate. Fill the car with gas.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider using citronella candles or oil to help repel insects. Most typhoons occur during warm weather and you will want to open your windows or even spend evenings outdoors until electricity is restored.
• If you can, store two weeks worth of food and water.
• Make sure that everyone has something to wear in warm weather, a rain jacket and sturdy shoes that will protect their feet from debris.
• Be careful when using lamps, lanterns and candles. Some lamp and lantern fuel isn't safe to use indoors and candles can be knocked over, starting fires.