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If we learned anything from Hurricane Katrina, unfortunately, it's that too many of us do not realize that storms can be deceptively more dangerous once the skies clear. Power could be out. There might be flooding, or snow drifts. Perhaps temperatures have dipped. Faced with the possibility of these obstacles, you could be endangering yourself if not adequately prepared to deal with a storm's aftermath. "The problem in most cases isn't being surprised by a storm. With today's weather-forecasting technology, we get advanced warning before the worst hits," said John Drengenberg, Consumer Affairs Manager for Underwriters Laboratories (UL), the not-for-profit product safety testing and certification organization. "The challenge is getting us to make preparations before the storms arrive so we aren't struggling to survive or putting ourselves in danger for the hours, days or possibly weeks after the storm subsides," Drengenberg said. Even when prompted by earlier disasters, we tend to react slowly. A poll by The National Hurricane Survival Initiative out of Miami found that, despite Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, 73 percent of Americans living in hurricane-prone areas had done nothing as of May 2006 to prepare for that year's season. Ready for anythingThe types of storms vary by region and time of year, but there are precautionary steps we can all take to help ensure safety well in advance of a storm. Keeping a supply of flashlights and batteries in the home, for instance, will come in handy whenever power is knocked out. Flashlights are the most preferred, prudent source of light. Candle use is strongly discouraged because candles pose a fire risk at a time when the community's emergency services might already be stretched.
Now also is a good time to check on your insurance coverage. When Hurricane Isabel hit North Carolina in 2004, it caused $170 million worth of property damage. That state's Insurance Commissioner, Jim Long, urges all homeowners to review their policies, not only in North Carolina but in the rest of the nation as well. "Speak to your agent about the proper coverage you'll need in the event of a disaster," Commissioner Long said. "Take inventory of your belongings by making a list and photographing or videotaping your valuables. Also remember that most home policies do not cover flood losses. Residents should consider purchasing a flood insurance policy separately." Other experts say that before storms threaten, you should consider storing up dry goods with long expiration dates. The rule for water is to have 3 gallons per family member. If you're on medication, be sure to have a two-week supply. It's also a good idea to fill up the gas tank in case you need to move out at a moment's notice and to keep the fuel lines from freezing during winter storms. Clear skiesOK, so the storm passes. But remember, you're not out of danger yet. Statistics indicate that people get hurt or die in accidents afterward, many of them brought on by mistakes that could've been avoided. "There's great relief in surviving a storm, but you have to remain vigilant — for yourself and your loved ones," said Tara Lynch, a spokeswoman for the American Red Cross. "The best thing you can do after a disaster is to play it safe. Don't be afraid to ask for help and take steps to plan for any future emergencies." The Red Cross advises that you be sure to stay inside until the storm has completely passed. Check your home for damage. If you smell natural gas, leave the building and call the fire department. Drink plenty of clean water and avoid overexerting yourself during cleanup. Check on neighbors who might need assistance. Stay off the roads unless driving is necessary. Post-storm roads need to drain of floodwater or be cleared of wind-strewn debris or snowdrifts. Do not drive if winds are 40 mph or more. And keep clear of downed wires and power lines. "We can't stress enough that you should always listen to your local officials," Lynch added. "They're the best sources of information about community dangers, when it's safe to return home and what resources are available for assistance." Because of downed power lines and outages, portable generators are always a popular alternative source of electricity. Unfortunately, their increased use also contributed to a record number of deaths associated with carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning during the 2005 hurricane season. In response, new warning labels for portable generators were developed by UL and the Consumer Product Safety Commission to stress the danger of CO. In April 2006, UL incorporated these warning labels into a new set of stringent safety requirements for portable generators. If you use generators, place them as far away from your home as possible and away from doors, windows and air vents — yours and your neighbor's. Never run a portable generator indoors. UL also recommends these tips for recovering safely after a storm:
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