Being prepared for a weather or other type of emergency often can mean the difference between swift, decisive action and utter chaos. Even knowing that, many people tend to focus on the now, and not the “what if.” Which tends to make them less prepared than those who expect the worst and hope for the best.
To underscore the point, there has been a large uptick in severe weather in recent years. The cause doesn’t matter as much as the reality that they’re here, and not likely to lessen in frequency or number any time soon.
So, from our house to yours, take the following steps to ensure you’re better prepared for whatever mother nature has in store for us.
- In the case of an accident or breakdown, keep warm blankets, a flashlight, and flares in your car. A shovel might come in handy in case your car gets stuck in the mud during a heavy rainstorm.
- Keep at least one I.C.E. (In Case of Emergency) contact in your cell phone.
- Keep plenty of candles, flashlights, and batteries at home in case of a power outage, no matter what the cause.
- Develop and practice an emergency escape plan with your family should your home ever catch fire. Also, arrange a safe meeting place where everyone can gather.
- Keep the phone number for poison control and your family’s doctors somewhere that’s easy to remember and locate. Be sure to share those numbers with any caregivers that come into your home.
- Know how to quickly shut off the water and electricity to your home.
- Keep a week’s supply of bottled water and non-perishable food handy. The last thing you want, or need, is discovering too late that your grocery store has run out.
- Other numbers to save in your Smart Phone contacts list include your plumber, electrician, HVAC service provider, the gas company, and your homeowner’s insurance agent.
Texas, like always, is like a welcome center for severe weather. So, it behooves all of us to prepare for what could happen – because it probably will. And while you’re at it, be sure to keep our phone number handy. We’re Optimum Air, and we can be reached 24/7 at 682-323-5027. It’s our job to help keep you safe and comfortable, and we do our job very well.