Experts, stating that strong storms will negatively affect those unprepared for adverse weather conditions, warned citizens by listing the measures to be taken before, during, and after a storm.
Emergency Aid and Disaster Management Specialist Dr. Ayşe Aydemir Yıldırım, reminding that pots or any objects that could fly away from areas like balconies and terraces should be removed or secured before a storm, emphasized the importance of being prepared to turn off valves for electricity, water, and natural gas.
Üsküdar University Vocational School of Health Services (SHMYO) Emergency and Disaster Management Program Head Lecturer Dr. Ayşe Aydemir Yıldırım provided information on individual protection against storms.
Knowing the measures to take before, during, and after storms is crucial
Dr. Ayşe Aydemir Yıldırım stated that storms, which emerge with strong winds and are accompanied by precipitation such as snow and rain, can cause serious damage, adding, “It is important to know the precautions to take before, during, and after this natural phenomenon, which we can consider an emergency.”
Pots and any objects that can fly away on balconies and terraces should be removed or secured
Dr. Yıldırım listed the measures to be taken before a storm as follows:
“Meteorological warnings should be followed from broadcasting organizations such as television, radio, etc. The most important point here is to follow and heed the warnings. After warnings are issued, one should definitely not go outside unless necessary. The coastal area should be evacuated. Pots and any objects that can fly away from areas such as balconies and terraces should be removed or secured. Doors, windows, and shutters should be closed to prevent wind entry. If possible, vehicles should be parked in enclosed garages; they should be moved away from places with a risk of collapse or falling debris, such as buildings, trees, and walls. A disaster first aid kit should be kept nearby.”
We should walk away from places like trees, electricity poles, and mosque minarets
Lecturer Dr. Ayşe Aydemir Yıldırım also provided the following information about what to do during a storm:
“Everyone should calmly wait in their homes or indoors for their safety. If going outside, we should walk away from places like buildings, trees, electricity poles, and mosque minarets. If damage occurs during the storm, one should not go out to repair it. The storm should be waited out. Doors should be closed when entering buildings.
Caution should be exercised when using stoves
If driving on roads exposed to the storm, attention should be paid to structures like bridges and viaducts. If possible, alternative routes should be used. All outdoor work should be canceled when a storm occurs. No suspended items or loads should be kept, and crane operations should be stopped. In necessary situations, one should be prepared to close the building's electricity, water, and natural gas valves. Carbon monoxide poisonings often occur due to stove use, especially during stormy weather. Therefore, caution should be exercised when using stoves.”
With the measures taken, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones against storms
Regarding what to do after a storm, Dr. Ayşe Aydemir Yıldırım listed the following information:
“Do not touch electrical cables that have fallen to the ground or are still swinging. Do not walk near walls, buildings, and trees whose safety is uncertain. Damage may appear later. Damages to the structure should be safely identified, and damaged areas should not be entered without ensuring safety. With these measures, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones against storms.”