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In the wake of ’very severe’ cyclonic storm Phailin, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh are braced for widespread devastation.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which is monitoring the situation closely, provides a list of measures that need to be taken in the event of a cyclonic threat.

Here is a list of Do’s and Dont’s that may prove to be beneficial according to the NDMA:

When the Cyclone starts

-Listen to the radio (All India Radio stations give weather warnings).

-Keep monitoring the warnings. This will help you to prepare for a cyclone emergency.

-Pass on the information to others.

-Ignore rumours and do not spread them; this will help to avoid panic situations.

-Believe in the official information

-When a cyclone alert is on, continue normal working but stay alert to the radio warnings.

-Get away from low-lying beaches or other low-lying areas close to the coast

-Leave early before your way to high ground or shelter gets flooded

-Do not delay and run the risk of being marooned

-If your house is securely built on high ground take shelter in the safer part of the house. However, if asked to evacuate do not hesitate to leave the place.

-Get extra food, which can be eaten without cooking. Store extra drinking water in suitably covered vessels.

-If you are to evacuate the house move your valuable articles to upper floors to minimize flood damage.

-Be sure that a window and door can be opened only on the side opposite to the one facing the wind.

-Make provision for children and adults requiring special diets.

-Switch off electrical mains in your house.

-Remain calm.

Post-cyclone measures

-Should remain in the shelter until informed that you can return to your home.

-Should get inoculated against diseases immediately.

-Strictly avoid any loose and dangling wires from lamp posts.

-If you are to drive, drive carefully.

-Clear debris from your premises immediately.

-Report the correct loss to appropriate authorities