Safety Measures: Before, During, After
Hydrometeorological disasters come with risks, especially typhoons which are common in the Philippines. Therefore, it is important to be prepared to reduce any possible casualty. Safety measures must be taken before, during, and after the storm.
BEFORE
Most of the preparation begins before the disaster. One must begin storing items essential to one's survival. These include the following:
DURING
While waiting for the typhoon to stop, one must remain calm yet alert for any announcements from official administrations such as PAGASA. If the area is safe, stay there. If not, go to safer ground as soon as possible if flooding occurs. At times, wading through flood waters is unavoidable when moving to a secure place but it must be washed away with clean water to prevent any diseases such as leptospirosis and cholera. AFTER
When the typhoon subsides, wait for announcements which will dictate if the storm is out of the Philippine Area of Responsibility and if it is safe again. Check the area for any damages, leaks, and hazardous objects and report them immediately. Dispose of contaminated food and water to avoid getting sick. |
References:
Flooding and communicable diseases fact sheet. (n. d.). Retrieved from http://www.who.int/hac/techguidance/ems/flood_cds/en/
Flooding and communicable diseases fact sheet. (n. d.). Retrieved from http://www.who.int/hac/techguidance/ems/flood_cds/en/