PREPARING FOR A TYPHOON

• Put together a basic disaster supplies kit
• Be sure you and your family have a communication plan
• Know your surroundings; learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone, which will help you know how your property will be affected when storm surge or tidal flooding are forecasted
• Find out where the nearest typhoon shelters are located in case you need to evacuate your home. The CNMI Public School System, whose facilities are used for shelters during the storm, usually posts announcements about shelter openings on its social media (i.e. Facebook) page 

Make plans to secure your property:
• Assist your family cover all of your home’s windows 
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down

DURING A TYPHOON
• Listen to the radio or TV for information, and keep your weather radio handy
• Secure your home, close storm shutters and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors
• Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed
• Turn off propane tanks
• Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purpose such as cleaning and flushing toilets: fill the bathtub and other larger containers with water
• Find out how to keep food safe during and after and emergency

AFTER THE TYPHOON
Wait for the “ALL CLEAR” message on the local media.
 
AFTER THE ‘ALL CLEAR’…
• Look out for and do not touch dangling or downed power lines.
• Report them and broken water or sewage lines, and downed telephone lines to CUC.
• Do not consume any food and water which might have spoiled or contaminated
• Use stored or sterilized water.

Source: Northern Marianas College

CHC GUIDELINES
For pregnant females who are planning to shelter at the Commonwealth Health Care Corp., eat a full meal before arriving at the hospital. Bring the following items, if possible, for your convenience and comfort:
• Identification and insurance cards
• Medication
• Drinking water
• Snacks that do not require refrigeration or heating
• Personal toiletries (toothbrush, soap, lotion)
• A change of clothing, including undergarments
• A set of newborn clothing
• Phone and phone charger
• Books, tablets, games, and other entertainment to pass the time
• Personal pillows and blankets for additional comfort

CHCC would also like to provide the community with the following typhoon preparation guidelines.
• Ensure that you have enough of any medications to last for at least three days. Store medication in a waterproof container, if possible. This is especially important for people with diabetes, hypertension, or uncontrolled asthma.
• • Take care of your mental and emotional health; prepare your heart and mind just as you would prepare your home before the storm.
Gather your family and give physical comfort to each other, especially children.
• Understand that it is common to feel strong emotions right now; remind yourself that this won’t last forever and help your loved ones to remain calm.

Having a plan will make you feel more in control of the situation.
Source: CHCC