Storm Season: Be Prepared!

Remember last year's Derecho that occurred on the evening of June 30, 2012? Well, so far this late spring/early summer has been quite wet and stormy, and we have seen our streets, sidewalks, and gutters turn into kayak-worthy waterways.

As the storm season is upon us, here are some tips to be prepared that has worked particularly well in our household. You may have already implemented some of these ideas in your own "be prepared" plan and some may be new to you. After last years Derecho we all are aware of how suddenly weather can drastically change our daily routines.

This list is by no means complete, but it is my family's "be prepared" list when bad weather threatens.

1. Have D batteries on hand for flashlights.
2. Fill up/top off the gas tank in each car (remember last year when many gas stations didn't have power?)
3. Keep a large bag (or two) of ice in the freezer. If the power goes out this will lengthen the time your freezer goods stay frozen.
4. Charge up all cell phones and any other necessary electronic devices prior to bad weather.
5. Keep protien based non-perishible food on hand, ie. peanut butter, trail mix, canned meat, chicken, or fish AND keep some small packets of condiments around.
6. Keep (and call if necessary) Dominions VA Power's report an outage number: 1-800-DOM-HELP in an easy to get to place.
7. Clear the outside drain(s) near your basement door (if you have them) of dirt, leaves, and other debris.
8. Have camp lanterns (not candles!) on hand with batteries. ALSO have some of those battery powered tea lights (one in each room) around--the dollar store is a good source, about 2 for a dollar and they come with batteries in them.

Please leave a comment below of your favorite "be prepared" tip for your Raymondale neighbors.  Thanks and have a wonderful day! AND mark your calendar for the Block Party on June 22nd!