The Philippines experiences only two distinct seasons (sunny and rainy), and as the summer season begins to wind down, torrential rainfall will again be experienced in the tropical country for the next few months.
Preparation now can prevent — or at least lessen problems —
ahead of Philippines’s possible rainy or worse stormy days. Here are some ways
you can prepare your home for the rainy season in order to keep you and your
family warm and dry.
1. Secure the Roof
and Clear the Gutters
The key to ensuring you and your family remain safe and dry
during the raining season begins at the roof of your house. The roof is the
part of your home that works heavily in protecting you from the elements. Make
sure you have thoroughly checked your roof for cracks. Keep in mind that
this includes evaluating the ceiling from the inside as well. Your home's
gutters help catch rainfall and ensure that it stays far away from the
foundation of your home. However, they can get clogged with leaves and other
debris, which can lead to overflowing and pooling of water that weigh down on
the roof. Clean gutters by spraying a hose through them from the bottom up. You
can also use a trowel to scoop out anything that's clogging your gutters, or
purchase a cleaning tool specifically designed for your gutters and attach it
to your hose.
2. Check for Signs of
Leakage
Before the rainy season begins, it's crucial that you check
your home for signs of leakage. It's best to fix a leak early on, as leaving it
to worsen could result in flooding, mold and mildew, and even collapsed
ceilings. Scan your ceilings for water marks and look for peeling paint. You
should also venture outside of your home and look at your roof for telltale signs.
Check out the ridges and see if there are any cracks. Look for loose, curled or
missing shingles, which can signal roof damage and allow water to enter the
home.
3. Reinforce the
Windows and Doors
Aside from your roof, your windows and doors are the most
common points where rainwater enters your home. Make sure that they open and
shut properly and that they're completely sealed. Even a tiny gap that can't be
seen might let in some water if you're not careful. This not only helps keep
you better protected from the outside, but also assists in the energy
efficiency of your air-conditioning or thermostat that you use indoors. If your
windows are on the newer side, you might not have to worry about sealing them,
but older ones should definitely be inspected.
4. Ensure the Proper
Flow of All Drains and Canals
While your area may not be prone to floods, an ounce of
prevention is always better than a pound of cure. Make sure all drains within
and around your home are fully functional, without any blockages that can cause
water to collect and result in extensive damage, become a physical hindrance,
or turn into breeding grounds for insects and other parasites.
5. Prepare for
Flooding
When it comes to the potential of flooding, it's better to
be safe than sorry. Make a few tweaks to the inside of your home so if the
worst does occur and you get water in your home, the damage is minimal. Keep
electronics high off the floor and place them far away from windows. Consider
mounting your television if it's not already, and keep laptops and tablets
stored on shelves that won't be affected by water that might find its way
inside your home. Keep mops within reach, and consider investing in a water
vacuum if you expect flooding to occur.
6. Organize an
Emergency Preparedness Kit
A house is not a home without you or your loved ones, so
your safety and well-being are of the utmost importance during the rainy
season. Be rain-ready along with your property by having an emergency
preparedness kit handy, particularly during times of typhoons and other natural
calamities.
A basic kit should include three gallons of potable water
per person, a three-day supply of non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, a tool
kit to open cans and turn off utilities, a flash light with extra batteries,
and a whistle to signal for help. If storage space permits, this should also
include wet wipes, mosquito repellent, garbage bags, and plastic ties for
personal sanitation, a battery-operated radio for news updates, and a working
mobile phone with a lengthy battery life.
7. Fix electrical
issues
If you notice any faulty or worn-out wiring, it’s best you
call an electrician to fix these ASAP. The last thing you want is anyone
getting electrocuted or shocked when the heavy rains come. For extra safety,
buy a few surge protectors to protect your appliances and gadgets that may be
affected in the event that lightning strikes unexpectedly.
8. Get Cozy
Once your home is protected from the rainy elements, you can
kick back and relax. Many find the rain to be soothing and peaceful, so
capitalize on that feeling and prepare for a nice, lazy day.
---
For more inquiries, comments and updates:
Visit our website at www.crownasiaphilippines.com
FB Page: Crown Asia Philippines
Contact/Viber us: 0917 512 5475
