The 90s were a time when blackouts were normal, and as kids, we would actually enjoy these periods when we could optimize our hide and seek and shadow games with our siblings. We loved to be able to scare each other out of our wits, and the fact that the darkness supported these intentions always helped.
Now, power outages are not as common, but they still happen especially when super typhoons rock the country. Here’s a checklist for typhoon and blackout preps which will hopefully catch us armed when the next one does come. As John F. Kennedy said, “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” So let’s get our affairs in order and be one less statistic for the disaster-stricken numbers our country keeps in check:
- Trim your trees
Lots of people had their cars fallen on and damaged by trees that got blown by the wind. As much as you can, park your cars away from trees that could possibly fall on it.
Some had their roofs damaged by flailing/falling trees as well. Keep the branches of your trees trimmed so they don’t cause much damage to your property.
- Have candles and flashlights ready
Set aside a place where you keep your candles, matches, flashlights, and batteries. When it gets dark, you’ll know exactly where to access the light.
- Keep your power banks charged.
Drain these once in a while, and if you haven’t used them in a long time, make sure to charge them too, to get the juices running and make sure they have enough capacity to power your gadgets.
- Unplug your devices
Lots of electrically powered gadgets and appliances get grounded from uneven circuit flow. To prevent electric surges when the power comes back on, unplug your devices when the power gets cut. Plug them back in when the electricity comes back. This will avoid the sudden electric surges that damage the gadget/appliance.
- Have a go-bag ready
An emergency bag with all the important items for in case you need to flee immediately is vital. Have water, food, a change of clothes, a towel, a light source, a noisemaker such as a whistle, and other important items for survival in your go bag. You can just grab this in case of immediate peril and be secure in knowing you can last a few days with the stuff you have inside.
- Locate and familiarize yourself with fire extinguishers
There may be fire extinguishers in your home – make sure to know where they are placed, and that you know how to handle them. This can be a lifesaver in case any fire does break out.
- Keep the most important items in your home in high places.
In case your area gets flooded, make sure to keep the most important things in the highest parts of your home. This will give you peace of mind no matter what time of the day the typhoons hit.
These may be basic pointers but it helps to have a reminder for when you need to prepare for these natural disasters. What else did we miss out on? Let us know in the comments!