Hong Kong’s typhoon season typically starts from May and lasts until November, and the peak period lasts from July to September. When a storm blows through, it may cause damage to your home such as widow glass breakage, resulting in unexpected home accidents. Preparedness is the key to staying safe, simply taping up the windows is not enough, there are several things you should also know to protect you and your beloved ones from danger. HoldCover has put together this handy guide for how to prepare your home for typhoons!
1. Tape the windows
Window-taping with duct tapes is an important part of typhoon preparation. Seal the gaps around the window joints to prevent water leakage; and tape a big “米" on the glass windows to strengthen them against some gusts. Stay away from the windows and locate a safe indoor area to shelter yourself until the storm passes in case of window glass breakage.
2. Close the doors
Please don’t leave your doors and windows ajar during a typhoon. Closing all interior and exterior doors and windows firmly helps to disperse the air pressure throughout your house to prevent the glass windows from shattering.
3. Turn off the air-conditioner
Don’t leave your air conditioner on during a storm as it may cause damage to the components or is likely to constitute a fire hazard.
4. Electrical appliances and valuables
Move your electrical appliances and valuable items away from the windows and wrap them with plastic bags to avoid water damage.
5. What to do in a power outage?
For safety’s sake, please use flashlights instead of candles. Check with your neighbors and the management office of your building or estate to see if the power outage is limited to your flat only. If so, check if the main switch or circuit breaker has been tripped. Call your electric company directly if you don’t have a management office.
Tips: Avoid opening the refrigerator when the power goes out - do so only when necessary. The refrigerator can stay cool for about 4 hours when the electricity goes out; while food in the freezer can stay frozen for about 24 to 48 hours.
6. Stock up on long-life food and water
Make sure you have enough food and water on hand:
- 3L of water per person per day for three days
- At least 3-day supply of non-perishable food, including dried and ready-made food such as canned food, nuts and oatmeal. Avoid salty food and those make you thirsty,
7. Prepare an emergency supply kit that is stocked with the following recommended items:
- Food
- Water
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Back up batteries for cell phones
- Radio
8. Obtain a home insurance
To better protect your home, you may consider buying a home insurance that covers property damage and protects you and your family from unexpected home accidents incurred by typhoons!
There are a wide range of home insurances available on HoldCover, choose one that offers you the right coverage and get prepared for the typhoon season!
Click here to get quick home insurance quotes for free!
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