04/11/2025
๐ Typhoon Emergency Preparedness Guide
โPreparing for a typhoon involves three main phases: preparation, action during the storm, and safe recovery afterward.
โ1. Before the Typhoon (Preparation Phase)
โThe goal is to secure your property, gather supplies, and finalize communication and evacuation plans. Start these steps as soon as a watch or warning is issued.
โA. Essential Go-Bag Checklist (72-Hour Supply)
โStore these items in a single, waterproof, easy-to-carry container (like a backpack) near an exit.Quantity/Notes Purpose
Water 1 gallon per person, per day (3-day minimum) Drinking and sanitation
Food 3-day supply of non-perishable, ready-to-eat items Canned goods, energy bars, dried fruit (include a manual can opener)
First Aid Kit Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, gauze, etc. Treating minor injuries
Medications 7-day supply of prescription medicines Necessary ongoing health supplies
Lighting Flashlight or headlamp, and extra batteries Essential for power outages (Avoid candles)
Communication Battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio Receiving critical alerts when power/internet is out
Power Fully charged power bank and phone chargers Keeping essential devices running
Documents & Cash Copies of ID, insurance, medical records in a waterproof bag. Small bills/cash. Banking/ATMs may be non-operational; documents are critical for recovery.
Sanitation Moist towelettes, hand sanitizer, garbage bags & plastic ties Personal hygiene
Clothing A complete change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy, waterproof shoes for each person. Staying dry and safe from debris
Special Needs Supplies for infants (diapers, formula), elderly, or pets. Ensuring all family members are covered.
B. Securing Your Home and Property
โReinforce: Secure or board up windows and secure doors.
โClear Drains: Check and clear gutters, downspouts, and storm drains of debris to prevent localized flooding.
โSecure Outdoors: Bring in all loose outdoor objects that could become wind-borne projectiles (lawn furniture, planters, toys, trash cans, grills).
โTrim Trees: Trim dead or weak tree branches that could fall on your house or power lines.
โKnow Your Zone: Identify your local evacuation routes and the location of the nearest official shelter. If you live in a flood-prone or coastal area, plan to leave immediately if an evacuation order is given.
โFull Tank: Fill your car's gas tank in case of evacuation.
โ2. During the Typhoon (Action Phase)
โThe most important rule is to stay inside and remain calm.
โStay Informed: Continue to monitor weather updates via your battery-powered radio.
โMove to Safety: Stay in a small, interior room on the lowest level, away from windows, glass doors, and skylights. A closet or an interior bathroom often offers the best protection.
โAvoid Windows: Strong winds can turn debris into dangerous projectiles. Cover or move away from all windows.
โUtility Safety: If ordered by authorities, or if floodwaters begin to enter your house, immediately turn off the main electric breaker and gas line.
โFlood Safety: NEVER walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and water may conceal hazards or be electrically charged by downed power lines.
โStay Put During the Eye: If the eye of the typhoon passes over, the winds may temporarily calm. Do not go outside, as the severe winds will return suddenly from the opposite direction.
โ3. After the Typhoon (Recovery Phase)
โPatience and caution are essential during the cleanup period.
โWait for the All-Clear: Do not leave your shelter or return to an evacuated area until local authorities confirm it is safe.
โCheck for Injuries: Provide first aid to anyone who is injured. Call emergency services only for life-threatening situations to keep lines open.
โSafety Hazards:
โWatch out for downed power lines. Assume any downed wire is live.
โCheck for structural damage to your home and gas leaks (smell for a sulfur/rotten egg odor).
โAvoid walking in standing water, which can be contaminated or conceal sharp objects.
โFood and Water Safety:
โThrow out any food that may have been contaminated by floodwater or spoiled due to lack of refrigeration. "When in doubt, throw it out."
โDo not drink tap water until local officials declare it safe.
โDocument Damage: If your home is damaged, take photos for insurance purposes before beginning any major cleanup.
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