How to Stay Safe During a Typhoon: According to the Department of Health, potable drinking water from a safe source is essential at all times. When in doubt, do not drink. According to the agency, boil water for 3 minutes to make it safe for drinking. Having proper food stock is important during storm seasons.
Have your own Storm Survival Kit. The Storm Survival Kit comprises of the following: Bottled Water, store enough potable drinking water good for at least three (3) days; Food, store food that requires minimal preparation, this includes canned food, cereal and crackers, and instant noodles; First Aid Kit, your first aid kit must contain band-aids, alcohol, medicine, mosquito repellent, and prescription drug if you have any; Swiss Army Knife, this is a multi-purpose knife that can be used as a knife, can opener, bottle opener, screwdriver, and scissors; Clothing, include thermal wear; Flashlight and Batteries; Toiletries; Fully Charged Gadgets; Battery Powered Radio; and Cash. Below are Disaster Survival Kits and First Aid Kits ready for purchase from Lazada.
Keeping warm and dry is important. Make sure to have jackets, sweaters, thick clothing, and rubber boots ready in case of storm surges and floods. The Department of Health also warns of the following rampant diseases during the rainy season: cough and colds, acute gastroenteritis, skin infections, dengue, leptospirosis, measles, and hepatitis A. All the more, these are common in evacuation areas. Thus, sanitation is crucial. Maintain personal hygiene, wash hands before and after eating, and before and after using the toilet.
Aside from health concerns, safety is also important. Be updated with the latest weather forecasts. Stay inside your home and be vigilant – keep flashlights, candles, and battery-operated radios within reach. Be wary of gas lamps. Do not use an appliance that has been submerged in floodwater. Do not wade through floodwater. Stay away from low lying areas.
Photo credit: Department of Health
Most of all, keep calm.