Disasters are natural, and there is only a limited way to help prevent them. Generally, humans have no complete control over disasters. What we can do is prepare for them and be resilient enough to bounce back after each.
Before disasters, there are a few things we can do to prepare. On the other hand, disaster cleanup after each disaster is also necessary. Let us discuss common natural disasters, as well as how to prepare for them.
Two Common Natural Disasters
1. Storms
A storm is very bad weather, with a lot of wind, rain, and thunder, as well as lightning frequently. When a center of low-pressure forms and a system of high pressure surrounds it, storms are produced. The interaction of these conflicting forces can produce winds and lead to the development of storm clouds.
Preparation Tips
- You should prepare and keep an emergency kit on hand and be aware of the best places to seek shelter if there is a severe thunderstorm.
- By removing loose objects from your yard and pruning your trees and shrubs, you can further ensure that your home is protected from strong winds.
- Stay inside a solid structure or a hard-topped car during the storm, and stay away from anything that conducts electricity.
- After the storm has passed, keep an eye out for any downed power lines and avoid them until utility workers can come and turn them off.
- Be familiar with flood warning signs and be aware of what to do in their presence; evacuate to a higher area if necessary.
Cleanup Tips After A Storm
- When local authorities deem it safe to do so, return home to evaluate storm damage.
- Wait until flood waters have sufficiently subsided and power lines and fallen debris have been removed from the roads.
- Wear the right gear, such as rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles.
- Check for damages, both inside and outside, like the roof, gutters, windows, tiles, cracks, holes, etc., to ensure that it is safe for you to enter the house.
- Check your walls for water damage. Use a wet and dry vacuum and mops to remove any remaining stormwater and other water damage.
- If wood furnishings are not severely warped, you can clean and restore them using products made for wood.
- To clean and sanitize bathroom vanities, kitchen countertops, and other solid surfaces, use bleach wipes or other sanitizing products.
- To prevent losing drenched clothing to difficult-to-remove mold or mold stains, wash it as soon as possible.
- Hire reliable Utah disaster cleanup companies.
2. Wildfires
Exceptionally dry weather, such as a drought, and strong winds both increase the risk of wildfires.
A wildfire is a naturally occurring fire that breaks out unplanned in a natural ground like a forest, meadow, or grassy plain.
Wildfires can occur at any time, any place, and are frequently brought on by human activity or a natural occurrence like lightning.
Preparation Tips
- Always have an evacuation strategy in place if you reside in a wildfire-prone area.
- Design and landscape your home with plants and materials that can withstand fire.
- Make sure your home is equipped with sprinklers, smoke detectors, and a supply of water in case your water lines are damaged.
- Trees and bushes around the house must be removed to make a defensible space and to keep your house safe from wildfire.
- Make sure your insurance policy covers damage from wildfires.
Cleanup Tips After A Wildfire
- Keep kids and pets away until the area has been cleaned up to prevent them from inhaling ash or dust.
- If worn correctly, N95 respirators can provide protection from airborne particles, so make sure to wear them before cleaning.
- Avoid using a leaf blower, dry sweeping, or vacuuming, as these activities could stir up ash and cause it to become airborne.
- When cleaning up the ash, put on some rubber gloves. Any ash on your body or clothing should be immediately washed off.
- If you have a ventilation system or air purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air filter, turn it on.
