Living in the Philippines means we are used to hearing storm warnings and typhoon updates almost every year. Some storms pass quickly, but others bring floods landslides and long power interruptions that can affect entire communities.
I have learned that waiting until the last minute is never a good idea when a strong typhoon is coming. Preparation is not about panic. It is about protecting your family and making sure you have what you need when normal services are disrupted.
In a country where typhoons are part of life, being ready ahead of time can reduce stress and danger. Here are the top things Filipinos should prepare before a typhoon hits.
Clean drinking water
Water is the first thing every household should secure. Prepare at least one gallon of clean drinking water per person each day for at least three days. Store water in sealed containers and keep them in a safe place.
Before the storm arrives, you can also fill large containers or your bathtub with water for washing and cleaning. This extra supply becomes useful if regular water service is interrupted.
Non perishable food
Stock up on food that does not require refrigeration or heavy cooking. Canned goods dried foods instant meals and ready to eat snacks are practical choices. Make sure you also have a manual can opener.
Try to prepare enough food for at least three days for everyone in your household. Choose items that are easy to prepare and familiar to your family.
First aid kit and medicines
A complete first aid kit is important during emergencies. Include bandages antiseptic wipes gauze scissors and basic medical supplies. If anyone in your family takes prescription medicine, prepare extra doses in advance.
Check your kit regularly and replace expired items. Having medical supplies ready can save time and prevent small injuries from becoming serious problems.
Clothes and basic essentials
Prepare extra clothes that can handle wet and windy weather. Waterproof jackets sturdy footwear blankets and towels should be easy to access.
If you have pets, prepare their food and basic needs as well. Keeping everyone warm and dry helps maintain comfort during long outages.
Flashlights and spare batteries
Power interruptions are common during strong typhoons. Each family member should have access to a flashlight. Keep extra batteries stored in a dry place.
Solar powered or hand powered lights are also good alternatives. Reliable lighting improves safety inside your home at night.
Charged phones and communication tools
Fully charge your smartphones and keep portable chargers ready. Save emergency contact numbers and install weather and alert applications for real time updates.
Communication is important during disasters. A charged phone allows you to receive warnings and stay connected with family.
Important documents
Gather identification cards insurance papers medical records and other important documents. Store them inside a waterproof envelope or sealed plastic container.
Easy access to documents makes recovery easier if evacuation or assistance is needed after the storm.
Emergency cash
During power outages electronic payments may not work. Keep a small amount of cash in safe storage using different denominations.
Cash can be useful for transportation food or urgent purchases when systems are down.
Portable radio
A battery powered or hand powered radio allows you to receive official announcements when internet and electricity are unavailable.
Keep spare batteries ready so you can continue receiving updates about the storm and safety instructions.
Family emergency plan
Every household should have a clear emergency plan. Discuss evacuation routes meeting points and communication steps if family members become separated.
Practice your plan so everyone understands their role. Preparation reduces confusion and panic when a typhoon arrives.
Preparing for a typhoon is one of the most responsible things we can do as Filipino families. Securing water food medical supplies clothing communication tools and a clear emergency plan creates a strong layer of protection. Typhoons may be unavoidable, but being prepared helps us face them with more confidence and safety.