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Tips for the typhoon season

LopezLink | 07/06/2009 6:55 PM

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MANILA - Typhoon season brings with it the possibility of floods and extended or widespread power outages.

At the very least, pay attention to the weather report from Pagasa or the Japan Meteorological Agency , then prepare your household accordingly in order to minimize inconveniences and prevent accidents.

Here are other tips on how to cope before, during, and after a typhoon.

Before a typhoon

• Be informed. Tune in to radio, television, or the internet for weather updates.
• Store water. Water service may be interrupted for days.
• Store food that will not spoil even without refrigeration. Have a supply of canned goods and instant food like noodles and biscuits.
• Prepare a typhoon kit which includes a batter-operated radio, flashlights, extra batteries, raincoats and medicines.
• Anticipate possible power outages. Charge gadgets that may be helpful like cellphones and rechargeable lamps.
• Secure things that may be blown away. Seal windows and doors and check if your roof is firmly secured. Make sure gutters are not clogged.
• Trim your trees so that they don't touch power lines.
• Post a list of important numbers (police, fire station, power company, disaster agency) near your telephone.

During a typhoon

• Tune in to radio and TV stations for emergency information.
• Turn off and unplug all appliances if a power failure occurs.
• Go to the center of the house, hallway, or any part that is least exposed to external glass windows in case of very strong winds.
• Turn off the main switch and move your appliances and other valuables to a higher area in your house if your house is flooded.

After a typhoon

• Check your house for damage and ask for assistance with repairs.
• Don't operate wet electrical appliances. Consult with a qualified electrician.
• Help in road clearing and surveying your area for damage.
• Report power outages to your company's service hotline. Meralco's customer service hotline, for example, is 16211, 0917-559-2824 or 0920-929-2824.