#CycloneFani: How to stay safe during a cyclone?
Cyclone Fani made landfall in the Puri district of Odisha this morning. Cyclones have the potential to cause large-scale destruction to houses and buildings, threaten lives, and wreak havoc wherever they strike. Cyclones produce strong winds, torrential rains, and strong tidal waves that may lead to flooding. Here are some dos and don'ts, precautions, and tips to keep you safe during a cyclone.
Tips to secure your house before the cyclone strikes
The first thing one can do is to check whether their house is built to cyclone standards. They should ensure the walls and roof of their house are secure and get repairs done as required. One must secure all the windows by fitting shutters/metal screens. Any tree branches hanging over the house must be trimmed and gutters should be cleaned to prevent clogging.
What precautions should be taken before cyclone makes a landfall?
After the cyclone warning is issued, one must keep themselves updated with the latest information about the cyclone and know when it is likely to make landfall. People, however, must not panic and stay calm. They must also ignore any kind of rumors and stay tuned to local radio or TV channels for regular updates and information about the cyclone.
Prepare an emergency kit containing these things
It is necessary to keep an emergency kit ready before the cyclone strikes. The emergency kit should contain torchlight with batteries, battery radio, water containers, canned/dried food, first aid kit and manual, fuel lamp and matches, portable stove and utensils, and waterproof bags among other things. One should also keep their important documents in waterproof folders and a list of emergency phone numbers ready.
What should you do during the cyclone?
During the cyclone, one must turn off all electrical equipment, main power line, and the gas connection in their house. Windows and doors must be shut; one must stay indoors as objects from outside may hit the house due to strong winds. Those living in old houses or those that cannot withstand strong winds and rain must leave their house before the cyclone hits.
#5: Things to keep in mind after the cyclone passes
One must not go outside until the local authorities announce that it is safe to do so. People should also avoid entering weak buildings that may have been damaged during the cyclone and avoid going near damaged electric poles, sharp objects, and broken trees too.
