Consumer Reports Tips on How to Get Ready for the Next Big Storm
Yonkers, NY (PRWEB) October 15, 2013 -- With the 2013 Atlantic hurricane season not yet officially over, there’s no telling whether or not there will be another storm like Superstorm Sandy this year. But even relatively minor storm can also cause major damage if it includes high winds, heavy rain, or tree-snapping ice or snow. Consumer Reports published a “How to Get Ready for the Next Big Storm” guide that lays out the essential steps Americans can take to protect their homes and families before disaster strikes.
“Even as hurricane season draws to a close it’s really important for families to remain diligent and take the necessary steps to ensure that they’re prepared for next storm,” said Bob Markovich, Home and Appliances Content Development Team Leader, Consumer Reports.
The following are some steps Consumer Reports’ experts recommend that families should take so that they’re prepared for the next storm:
• Move or secure outdoor items so they don’t become projectiles.
• Park cars on high ground but not beneath trees.
• Move your valuables to higher floors if you expect flooding.
• Fill all of your vehicles’ tanks, because gas stations could lose power.
• Get gas for your generator, most require 12 to 20 gallons per day.
• Charge your phones and establish an emergency contact.
• Stock up on nonperishable food (crackers, peanut butter.)
• Make sure you have at least one gallon of water per person to last three days.
• Get batteries for flashlights and radios. Find your candles.
• Take out some cash, ATMs may be out of service during a power failure.
• When the storm arrives, close your windows tight.
The full Consumer Reports “How to Get Ready for the Next Big Storm” guide can be found online at ConsumerReport.org.
Consumer Reports is the world’s largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, Website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, food and product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.
—30 —
James McQueen, Consumer Reports, (914) 378-2839, [email protected]
Share this article