STORY OF THE STORM SO FAR
Every member of a family should know where the emergency bag is kept, and the storage location should be easily accessible, even in the dark during power outages
Times News Service
MUSCAT: Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance (PACDA) has provided detailed instructions on what supplies peoiple need to pack in case they must leave their homes prior to the arrival of tropical storm Luban.
Torrential rains and gusting winds have affected large parts of the Dhofar and Al Wusta Governorates, and this may require people to stay inside their homes and shelters until the situation has calmed down. “The emergency bag contains important items that will help you in an emergency, and you will need to bring it along should you be required to evacuate your home,” said a PACDA spokesman.“Every member of your family should know where the emergency bag is kept, and it is recommended that the storage location be easily accessible, even in the dark during power outages.”
The emergency bag should contain a torchlight, in cases of power outages and for evacuations at night, as well as batteries for the torch and a portable radio.
PACDA advises against inserting the batteries into these devices until needed, to guarantee devices have full power when they are required. Expats and nationals in the country are required to carry with them essential personal medications for all members of the family, as well as a waterproof folder that contains photocopies of important documents, such as passports and insurance policies, should the originals be destroyed.
In addition, PACDA recommends that people carry with them a whistle and a first aid kit.
“Use your whistle to call for help or alert others, as shouting may be tiring, ineffective and may cause you to inhale dangerous amounts of smoke and dust, in some cases,” added the spokesman.“To treat any injuries along the way, a small kit containing some first aid dressing, antiseptic wipes, plasters and bandages will suffice.”
Another essential for families with small children would be childcare supplies and other special care items, whereas optional items for the emergency bag include a list of personal contacts, including telephone numbers of family members, the workplace and school, cash, preferably in small denominations, bottled water and dried foodstuff, and a set of spare clothing and writing materials, should they be required.
A list of emergency numbers, such as those of the civil defence, Royal Oman Police and other public utility, electricity, water and telephone companies must also be carried.
The spokesperson added: “You may have more than one emergency bag, for example, you may have one for each family member.
Please decide what is most practical for your family. In addition, please do not pack bulky items into the emergency bag, as it may hamper movement during an emergency. “Check expiry dates of perishable items in the bag and replace them when needed, and periodically replace batteries with fresh ones, as some may leak, even when unused, and do not place them inside devices,” he said.“Though most natural occurrences and disasters are beyond our control, we are still able to increase our chances of survival by acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills to ensure our safety in such emergencies.”
Residents and citizens who wish to call the Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance during an emergency, can reach them at 9999 or 24343666.
The packing of this bag is required for emergencies, such as floods, landslides, power outages, cyclones, tropical storms, tsunamis, earthquakes and being trapped under debris or rubble.