Essentials to have at home during a storm

AS the country prepares for the passage of a tropical storm within the next 48 hours, here are some tips and a list of essentials that will help you out.

More than likely, you won't be leaving your house during a storm to do any shopping. And even if you do try, most places are likely to be closed.

So an emergency supply kit is crucial during this time. This should consist of items such as: canned food items

• Water
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medication
• Battery-operated radio
• Matches
• Sanitary products
• Plastic bags
• A clock
• Emergency contact numbers written down

Other items some may opt for include portable cellphone chargers, sandbags in case of flooding, paper, pen/pencils, extra cash, games to keep children occupied, and a whistle.

If you do have to leave your home because of some form of emergency, ensure you have rain gear such as umbrellas, raincoats and boots.

Try to store your most important documents such as IDs, birth certificates, passport, vaccination cards, etc into Ziploc bags and place in a safe, high area.

Caring for pets during a storm is equally important, so ensure they too have food, clean water, medication, and anything that can help ease their anxiety if they're afraid of the sound of thunder – for example, thunder shirts or their favourite toys. Keep them in a safe, dry place and ensure they are either microchipped or have contact information for their owners on a tag attached to their collars.

Hotline numbers for corporations

There are hotline numbers you can call for assistance within city, borough and regional corporations.

Port of Spain – 800-7722

San Fernando – 800-7238

Arima – 800-2222

Chaguanas – 800-3222

Point Fortin – 800-7322.

Contact numbers for regional corporations:

Diego Martin – 800-3672

Tunapuna/Piarco – 800-8772

Couva/Tapbaquite/Talparo – 800-2882

Mayaro/Rio Claro – 800-4672

San Juan/Laventille – 800-7572

Sangre Grande – 800-7472

Princes Town – 800-7872

Penal/Debe – 800-7372

Siparia – 800-4772.

Emergency services:

Police – 999 or 511

Ambulance – 811

Fire service – 990

TEMA (Tobago Emergency Management Agency) – 211.