Whatever your take is on climate change, you cannot deny that weather patterns are changing: from historic heatwaves to record-shattering wildfires, the weather is getting more severe every season. Without adequate preparations, your family might be in the dark literally and figuratively when a natural disaster strikes.
Thankfully, as every prepper knows, there are strategies you can implement to prepare for disaster. With the right amount of preparation, you can reduce the risks of damage from changing weather patterns on your home and family.
UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS OF EXTREME WEATHER
Extreme weather can lead to several types of disasters, the worst of which are flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, and tornados. With flooding and wildfires, the best thing you can do is take your family and go; sheltering in place is usually the last thing you want to do, especially if local governments are calling for evacuations. Wildfires are typically the result of severe droughts, but a lightning strike can also cause the initial spark.
With hurricanes and tornados, you can often shelter in place, depending on the severity of the storm. Tornados typically give little warning, meaning staying on your property is likely the only option.
A storm shelter, bunker, or basement is the best form of protection against high wind storms. Since hurricanes can often last several days, it is best to have shelf-stable food and clean water stockpile. Having a generator is also a worthy investment for short-term disasters.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR HOME AGAINST NATURAL DISASTERS
Preparing your home against natural disasters depends on where you live. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, you might want to invest in permanent storm shutters, sandbags, and landscaping.
Landscaping can seem a bit strange when talking about wind storms, but you will want to clear the immediate area around your house from tall trees. Hurricanes, tornados are both strong enough to uproot mature trees, turning branches into projectiles.
If you live in an area prone to wildfires, you will want to create a fire barrier around your home. Keep plantings away from the foundation. If possible, keep your yard and plants watered to avoid dry grasses and plantings.
If you live in a flood zone, it is all about grading your landscape and sealing your foundation. While sealing the structure might not protect against every flood, it can help delay water damage, providing enough time to protect your property with sandbags.
THE IMPORTANCE OF EMERGENCY KITS
Sometimes, you will need to take your family and evacuate to someplace safer, away from severe weather. You will not always have time to pack essentials, which is why having prepared emergency kits is crucial to survival.
Emergency kits are bags or packs that include food, first aid, water, clothing, medication, etc. Each package should be unique to each family member, ensuring medications and supplies are not forgotten or misused.
HOW TO STAY SAFE DURING A DISASTER
When in the midst of a storm or disaster, there are several things you need to do and keep in mind to ensure your and your family’s safety. You will want to stay informed by tuning into local authorities, have an evacuation plan, avoid unnecessary risks, etc.
With the warning of future volatile weather patterns, it is necessary to prepare for the worst. While a full-scale bunker might not be a requirement, some things, like emergency kits, are a must. What do you consider a must when preparing for natural disasters? Leave a comment below.