Monsoon Preparedness: Essential Steps for a Safe Season

Monsoons are seasonal rains that occur in many of the warmer regions of the world. The intense rains of monsoon season happen because the consistently warm air draws moisture out of the ocean. When the cool, moist air meets with the warm air the wind blows, clouds form and the rains begin. If you follow these steps, you will be ready before the first drop.

Instructions

• 1

  Clear your yard of debris that could be caught in the wind and blown around to cause damage. Bring any belongings that are stored outside into the house. Clear your gutters to prepare them for the season.

• 2

  Seal windows with tape. Prepare your basement in case of flooding. If you have a basement pump, test it throughout the year to be ready for monsoon season and have a power source available to run it without electricity.

• 3

  Store drinking water in case flooding contaminates the tap water. Also prepare by keeping a supply of food and a mechanical can opener. Make special considerations if you have young children and store baby food and extra diapers.

• 4

  Keep batteries, a radio, flashlights, a first aid kit and an extra supply of your medications in an emergency pack where everyone in the family has easy access to it.

• 5

  Fill your gas tanks and keep a reserve if possible. You may need to travel without the ability to purchase gasoline.