With the changing of the seasons, the weather patterns change, too, and the risk of severe storms increases significantly. Coastal states brace for hurricane season, while tornados tend to pop up in the plains and Midwestern states. To help you stay safe, here are some simple suggestions so you are ready.
Important information about your Digital Life system during inclement weather
Your system is equipped with a 24-hour backup battery. In the event that you lose power, the keypad will display an "AC Power Outage" message and will begin to beep. To disable the beeping, follow the prompts listed on the keypad.
- Automation and/or camera services will be disabled to conserve the battery.
- If the power loss lasts longer than 24 hours, the battery will deplete causing your to go offline and will not be monitored. Should you experience an emergency during this time, please call 911.
- Once power is re-established, 24/7 monitoring will be restored allowing your battery to re-charge.
When the risk becomes real--secure your surroundings
Whether you are bracing for high winds from a powerful thunderstorm or the coastal threat of a tropical storm, it's a good idea to secure your outdoor surroundings as best you can. Some suggestions are:
- Secure or bring in patio furniture.
- Make sure trees are pruned to minimize the risk of branches falling.
- Have supplies ready to board up windows in the event of a hurricane.
Have a family plan
It's important to have a plan and that everyone in the family/household knows what it is. Here are four suggestions when formulating a plan:
- Identify "safe spots" in your home for each kind of disaster: hurricane, tornado, earthquake, mudslide, fire and floods.
- Learn escape routes--and practice them.
- Identify local meeting spots if you are forced out of your home.
- Identify one emergency contact--this could be a friend or relative who lives out of town who can be contacted and who would know your whereabouts if the family were to become separated.
Have an emergency supply kit
It's a good idea to have this ready so you aren't scrambling to gather things at the last minute. Storms can change in severity in a moment's notice, so it's best to be ready. In your supply kit, consider including the following:
Nourishment:
- 3-day supply of food and water for each person in the household, including pets
- Manual can opener
- Utensils
Personal needs:
- Any medicines you take daily
- Medical supplies
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Feminine hygiene products
- Glasses/contacts
- Baby wipes/diapers
Safety:
- Flashlight
- Radio
- Cell phone and chargers
- Extra batteries
Important documents:
- Insurance cards
- Medical condition information
- Emergency contact info
Children:
- Supplies, such as food, diapers, bottles and formula
- Games/activities/toys
Pets:
- Ample food and water
- Extra harness or leash
- Carrier or crate
- Current photos and description to prove they are yours
- Feeding instructions, vet phone number and other emergency contact info
