How To Handle Storms Of Destruction

Last year, like every other year, hurricanes battered parts of the US and it is that time again for these blowhard storms. Not only are they a continuing threat, but there are severe thunderstorms that pack high winds, hail, flooding rains, and tornadoes. These storms often sneak up on you, unlike a hurricane, that usually allows people ample time to evacuate.

Last year, one of the worst hurricanes to hit was Hurricane Gustav. Preparing for Hurricane Gustav saved many lives and by knowing what to do before a hurricane hits can make all the difference in the world to your home and property.

Downed power lines are one of the most dangerous things to watch out for following a hurricane.

Last year the mid section of the US took a pounding. In fact, I've named the top three natural disasters of 2008 hurricanes, floods, and ice storms. Although they were not alone, these were storms that I experienced effects from first hand.

Speaking of floods, when do you suppose that it is safe to go back into your home? Knowing what to do when you return to a flooded home is crucial to your safety.

And let's not forget about the destruction of an ice storm that left Kentucky powerless. Last year, in what started out being called the second largest power outage in Kentucky's history, ended up being the largest in their history. 525,000 people in Kentucky were left powerless after a massive ice storm covered the state.

That's why you should prepare for power outages so that life goes on, even when Mother Nature has her own ideas.

Being weather ready is the key to surviving all that nature can throw at you.

Additional Guide Tips:

My fellow expert guides have chimed in on these subjects and have added some great storm tips that you may not have thought of. You see, when storms hit suddenly, you're lucky to grab a flashlight that works and get to a shelter in time. Being prepared will keep you safe and it just makes good sense!

David Beaulieu, Guide to Landscaping writes of hurricane preparedness and safety.

Elizabeth Weintraub, Guide to Home Buying & Selling tells us about dealing with a wet basement and buying flood insurance.

Marie Iannotti, Guide to Gardening explains how to evaluate and care for flood-stressed trees..

Ron Leshnower, Guide to Apartment Living tells us what to do after a storm with this article, top services for connecting with loved ones after a disaster.

Lisa Hallett Taylor, Guide to Pool and Patio has some great tips for preparing your swimming pool, spa, and hot tubs for storm damage before they hit. She also covers how to correct storm damage to them in these articles:

Preparing your house and yard before a storm is essential.

After a storm hits, learn how to inspect and detect a leak in your swimming pool or spa.

Another thing to consider is safety around these pools and spas when dealing with things like waterbourne illnesses.

Don't Forget About Your Pets!

Franny Syufy, Guide to Cats has a tried and true article on http preparing your cats for disaster

Stan & Debbie Hauter, Guides to Saltwater Aquariums chime in on caring for fish in these four articles:

How to manually generate oxygen in your aquarium.

How to keep your aquarium running when the power goes out.

Emergency aquarium evacuation checklist.

How to retain and manually generate heat in aquariums.

Shirlie Sharpe, Guide to Freshwater Aquariums tells how to keep your fish alive without power. Emergency power for aquariums is written by an aquarium owner, Adam Goldstein, who experienced Katrina when it was a cat1 hurricane passing through Florida.

Photo: Handout - Getty Images News