As we speak, Filipinos in areas from Visayas and Mindanao are struggling to find clean drinking water, food, and even shelter as their homes were destroyed by the recent typhoon.
Not only should we help the victims of the calamity, but we should also prepare ourselves for the next. For this InvestaDaily, we’ll point out the essentials that you need to prepare for the next natural calamity.
Flashlight
Have an emergency flashlight ready as electric poles and wirings are likely to get damaged causing a blackout. This also helps you avoid dangerous obstacles around the environment and prevent minor to critical injuries.
Medicine
Preparing medicine will save you the hassle of running to the pharmacy before, during, and after the calamity. Remember that transportation will be difficult and pharmacies will most likely run out of supply.
Water
Have gallons of water ready in your household. Post-typhoon Odette, home water pumps stopped working due to the power outage causing a shortage of water supply in the region. People struggled to find clean water as retail stores have either run out of stock or gouged their prices.
Ready-to-eat food
Prepare ready-to-eat foods that won’t easily spoil and can be easily stored. If a power outage were to happen, foods that require cold storage in the fridge will spoil. Having pre-cooked food such as canned goods is important to have in every household.
Cash
Always have cash on hand with you at all times as POS systems will be offline in case of a power outage. Finding ATMs is a common solution, but take note that these will either be out of cash or crowded as people will also be withdrawing cash.
Clothes
Always prepare an extra set of clothes beforehand to safeguard your physical body from the environment. If a power outage happens, it will be difficult to wash dirty and used clothes which is why it is important to pack in advance.
Mobile phone
Have your mobile phones ready in case you need to contact your family members or your emergency contacts in times of calamity. On top of that, always have a fully-charged power bank with you especially when there is no electricity.
Emergency contact list
Have an emergency contact list on your phone in case you need help. Your emergency contact list could be your family members, your office, and your close peers who are willing to help you in case of emergencies. Also, have a contact list of rescue departments in your area because you will never know when you need them.
Battery-powered radio
Owning a battery-powered radio keeps you up-to-date with the latest news during and after the calamity. This will help you assess the situation in the area and plan your next moves.
Extra batteries
Always carry extra batteries with you for your electronics (e.g. radio, flashlight, etc.). Electricity may not be available for a long period of time which is why it is important to always have a backup supply.
Evacuation centers
It is important to know the location of all evacuation centers in your area. If your home is no longer safe and you need assistance, head to the closest evacuation center.
First-aid kit
Always have a first-aid kit on hand to treat injuries and infections as it may take time for the ambulance and rescue team to reach your location.
Plan escape routes
Plan escape routes in your area, even at home, in case major roads are heavily trafficked or damaged. Knowing alternate routes will help you get to your destination quicker, especially in times of an emergency.
Don’t wait for the next storm to happen
You should start preparing the necessary kits beforehand since you will never know when the next storm might come. It may happen sooner than you think and it might be too late for you to prepare. Having an emergency fund/rainy day fund (at least 3-6 months-worth of your expenses) will also come in handy when dealing with unexpected circumstances or for you to have cash ready during emergencies. If you want to passively grow your emergency fund, you can invest through the Investa App.
Save this article and send it to your family and friends reminding them to always stay prepared!
