Prepare for the impacts of climate change

The tangible impact of climate change is being felt in the increasing occurrences of both natural disasters and extreme weather patterns. These cause harm to all species on earth, and are likely to intensify as climate change continues.

This guide aims to shed light on how individuals can prepare for these changes. With knowledge comes empowerment; by arming ourselves with information and practical strategies, we can face this era of climatic uncertainty more resiliently and effectively.

Extreme heat: Take practical steps to stay cool during a heatwave

With heatwaves becoming more frequent, it’s essential to be prepared for extreme heat threats and know what to do when they happen. Preparing for high temperatures and ensuring there’s access to a cool space are crucial steps. Even without air conditioning, it’s possible to stay cool by closing blinds and windows during the day and opening them at night when it’s cooler. You might also want to consider investing in fans or technologies like evaporative coolers.

Ensure your household has access to light-coloured, loose clothing and sunscreen during a heatwave. Preparing a warm weather kit is a practical step toward coping during a period of extreme heat. It’s also useful to have a contingency plan in place, particularly if you have dependents or pets to consider. Provide pets with plenty of water and shade, and walk dogs during cooler periods of the day.

One of the primary risks of warm weather is heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion. These can be prevented by following certain precautions. Cooling techniques such as using fans, damp cloths, and taking cold showers can help maintain a safe body temperature. Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day and keep hydrated.

With some forethought and preparation, you will be able to make yourself and your household more comfortable during a period of extreme heat and reduce any anxiety that may arise.

Drought: How to mitigate its effects

Droughts often occur after prolonged periods of extreme heat. To reduce the impact of these events, drought adaptation strategies such as efficient water use and creating drought-tolerant landscapes can be employed. Planning for drought involves storing water supplies and considering the need for alternate water sources.

Climate change is likely to increase drought frequency in many regions. Therefore, it’s crucial to implement drought monitoring and early warning systems for timely preparedness and response. You can prepare your home and garden for drought periods by reducing water usage and prioritising the watering of valuable and mature plants only.

In the event of a drought, remember to follow local water restrictions and implement measures to reduce water loss. You can find drought relief resources at local government agencies and organisations dedicated to water conservation.

Wildfires: Have an evacuation plan and follow it if needed

Wildfires are more likely to occur during drought periods or times of extreme heat. To prepare for wildfire season, create a defensible space around your home by clearing dead plants and trees. Consider investing in wildfire insurance coverage to provide a financial safety net in case of loss or damage.

Sign up for a community warning system and emergency alerts so you get early notice if you’re likely to be impacted by a wildfire. Ensure that you have an evacuation plan in place and follow it accordingly if a wildfire approaches. Keep an emergency survival kit ready, which includes essentials such as water, food, breathing masks, important documents, and supplies for pets.

Smoke and air quality monitoring can protect your health during wildfire events. If the air quality is poor, stay indoors and close all windows and doors. To reduce the risk of wildfires, cooperate with local fire safety measures and report any unattended fires or smoke.

Extreme cold: Staying warm during a period of cold weather

In addition to planning for extreme heat, it’s important to prepare for cold weather emergencies. Planning for extreme cold involves ensuring you have sufficient heating sources, whether that be your usual home heating system or alternative methods heating. Make sure your home’s heating system is well maintained.

Prepare a cold weather supply kit, including emergency heat sources, extra warm clothing, and blankets. As with extreme heat, it’s also useful to have a contingency plan in place for extremely cold weather, particularly if you have dependents or pets to consider. Your contingency plan might include creating and maintaining a warm space in one room within your home, particularly if you want to save money on heating.

Learn how to recognise signs of frostbite and hypothermia, including numbness, shivering, confusion, and drowsiness, so you can act quickly should you suspect anyone is experiencing symptoms. Dress in layers, covering all parts of your body to maintain body heat, both indoors and outdoors. If you need to be outdoors frequently during extremely cold weather, invest in high-quality outerwear that is specifically designed to help maintain body heat.

Storms: How to prepare if you’re likely to be affected

Storms can take many forms, from severe thunderstorms to tornadoes and hurricanes. Understanding the different types of storms can help inform the specific precautions needed. Make sure to research the types of storms that could potentially impact you and your household, and prepare accordingly.

To prepare for storms, start by creating an emergency survival kit. This kit should include items such as torches, batteries, battery packs, non-perishable food, potable water, and important documents. Having an emergency kit will make all the difference should a storm hit, and ensure that you have some comfort until power is restored and things start returning to normal.

Make an evacuation plan, so that you and your household know what to do if a storm is forecast. If evacuation orders are given, put your plan into action accordingly. Prepare your home by securing loose objects and trimming trees to help prevent damage. Home insurance coverage can provide a financial safety net in case of damage.

During a storm, stay indoors and away from windows and glass doors. Regularly monitor storm warning systems and heed any advice given. Only go outside when it’s deemed safe to do so.

Flooding: What to do if you’re in a flood-prone area

Storm surge and coastal flooding are common side effects of storms. Inland, flooding occurs during or after periods of heavy rainfall, often when rivers burst their banks.

To prepare for a flood emergency, start by understanding flood risk zones and determining whether your property is within such a zone. If so, set up flood alerts and create a contingency plan accordingly. This might include moving valuable items and furniture to higher floors, protecting important documents, and planning an evacuation route.

Consider adding home protection measures, such as flood barriers or sealing basements, to help prevent structural damage to your property.

It’s also important to create a flood emergency supply kit, including items like medicine, a battery-powered radio, a torch, food and water. This practical step will ensure that you have necessary items at hand.

In case of a flood, prioritise personal safety and do not walk or drive through flood waters. Evacuate if instructed. After a flood, ensure that the house is safe before re-entering and clean it thoroughly to prevent mould growth.

Preparedness reduces threats caused by climate change and natural disasters

This guide provides practical strategies for individuals to prepare for climate change and natural disasters. For each type of disaster, specific steps are outlined, such as creating an evacuation plan or preparing an emergency survival kit, to help individuals and households be more resilient and prepared.