Different Ways to Prepare for a Storm In Longview, TX

4/24/2020 (Permalink)

A bad storm—wind, rain, snow or ice—can at worst endanger your life and at least make for some challenging hours and days, especially if you lose power. You and your family will weather the storm much more easily and safely if you prepare by having some key supplies on hand well before you need them.

1. Food & Water

Stock up with a two-week supply of food and water. Choose foods that are high in calories and nutrition, and that don’t require refrigeration, water or special preparation, such as canned food, dry mixes and other staples. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends storing at least one gallon of water per day per person. Keep your food and water in a cool, dry and ideally dark place. Periodically, check expiration dates and replace items as necessary. And if you have a pet, keep a two-week supply of that food on hand, too.

2. Lights & Electronics

If your power fails, you’ll want lighting and a way to power your phone or other electronic device. Before the storm, stash away several flashlights and a compact lantern that offers abundant light. Don’t forget to include an ample supply of batteries for the lantern and flashlights and portable radios, too. When a storm is predicted, be sure to fully charge your phone and devices—and if you have one or more power banks, charge them, too.

3. First Aid Kit

Be ready to handle minor injuries on your own, because emergency facilities and personnel may be in great demand during a major storm. Have a first-aid kit on hand that includes bandages, gauze, a cold compress, scissors, tweezers, a seven-day supply of necessary medications and more. Store these essentials in a portable carrying case so you can grab and go if you need to.

4. Documents & Records

After a storm disaster you may need ID to prove who you are. Gather and store (in a portable waterproof, fire-safe security chest) your important identification documents, such as birth certificates, Social Security cards, marriage certificates, adoption papers, passports, naturalization documents, wills, living wills, powers of attorney and property deeds/titles. Include important DVDs, portable disks and flash drives, too, if there’s room.

5. Cash & Gas

Make it a habit to keep some spare cash tucked away at home for a real emergency. (If you have the means, you’d be wise to build up a separate supply of easily-accessible funds that you can tap after a storm disaster to cover sudden expenses.) And when a storm is in the forecast, gas up your vehicles so that you can charge up your electronics and run errands—or evacuate if necessary.