A Storm During a Pandemic? How to Be Safe (Part 1: Sheltering at Home)

9/18/2020 (Permalink)

If a storm is on the way during a pandemic, you'll need to adjust your preparation plans to keep your family safe at home.

As we live through an unprecedented pandemic, Americans have had to figure out different ways to do business, school our children, shop for food and so much more. It’s essential that you know how to keep your family safe during a pandemic if a hurricane, tornado or other powerful storm is bearing down on your home.

As always, SERVPRO advises that you batten down your home to minimize storm damage; have on hand a two-week supply of shelf-stable food, water and essentials, such as necessary medications and other important items; and pack an easy-to-carry bag of supplies, clothing and other items to take if you need to evacuate.

But in a pandemic, especially if you evacuate, you also face the prospect of exposing yourself to the pathogen. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), your shelter and evacuation plans should take into account this risk. The American Red Cross also advises that you revise your emergency plans. One of the Red Cross’s key recommendations is to gather your supplies as soon as you can—you want to avoid both shortages and crowded stores in a pandemic.

Your Shelter-at-Home Kit

Set aside enough stay-at-home supplies to last you and your family at least two weeks, including:

• a supply of shelf-stable, nutrition-rich food
• sufficient bottled water for each family member
• personal hygiene items, including soap and paper products
• cleaning and disinfectant supplies
• face masks for all family members

Assemble and keep current a one-month supply of the prescription and over-the-counter medications you and your family will need. Store these meds in an easy-to-grab go-bag.

After a powerful hurricane or other storm, you may not have electricity for days or even weeks. Be sure to have a supply of flashlights, lanterns and fresh batteries; avoid using candles. If you own a portable generator, inspect it before the storm, make any repairs necessary and purchase sufficient gasoline. Locate the generator at least of 20 feet away from your home and aim the exhaust vent away from windows or doors.

Part 2 of this article will detail what you need to do to prepare to evacuate during a pandemic.

If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836

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The team at SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield has specialized training and experience in natural disaster and storm damage cleanup, water damage remediation, fire restoration services and chemical cleanup. Call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield (860.649.0836) any time.

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If your home or business suffers damage from a windstorm or other natural disaster, call SERVPRO of Manchester/Mansfield today at 860.649.0836