**Bhubaneswar:** A deep depression formed over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to become a cyclonic storm- Kayant in the next 24 hours.
Though the impact will be very less in Odisha according to the Met Department, but the people of Odisha panic in the name of Cyclone as they have seen the havoc wreaked by the 1999 Super Cyclone, Phailin and Hudhud.
Here are some tips to help you keep your home, family and business safe in times of a cyclone.
1: Gather everyone indoors including pets.
2: Stay away from doors, windows and exterior walls.
3: Turn off all electricity, gas and water and unplug all appliances.
4: Assemble an emergency kit that includes things like first aid supplies, torch, battery operated portable radio, important documents and medicines.
5: Get extra food, especially things which can be eaten without cooking or with very little preparation. Make provisions for children and adults requiring special diets. But do not hoard items or make a panic buying of things.
6: Store extra drinking water in suitable covered vessels. If you are in one of the evacuation area, move your valuable articles to upper floors to minimise flood damage.
7: Be sure that trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed and clear the clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
8: Avoid being misled by rumours, listen to your portable radio for updates and remain indoors until advised. Pass on only the official information you have got from the radio to others.
9: Check on everything which might blow away or be torn loose. Remove them and store them in a covered room. Fasten glass windows with wooden planks to prevent splinters flying into the house during cyclonic wind.
10: Get away from low lying beaches or other locations which may be swept by high tides or storm waves. Please act promptly if asked to evacuate. Do not delay and run the risk of being marooned
Lastly, and most importantly, be calm. Do not panic. Your ability to meet emergency will inspire and help others.
