17 things you should never do at home during severe weather

Charcoal barbecues emit deadly carbon monoxide if you run them inside. Don’t allow yourself to make a fatal mistake. Keep your generators and grills outside, even if it’s uncomfortably cold and would be far more convenient if they were indoors.

Learn how to clean your barbecue.

We all know that windows are dangerous during storms, but what do most people do when they hear a severe weather warning? They run right to the window to see what they can see. In high winds, windows can easily brake sending glass and other debris inside!

Unplugging your appliances will prevent any potential damage from a power surge once power restores. Although, some experts say to always keep one lamp plugged in during a power outage.

When your favourite TV or radio show are interrupted because of severe weather updates, don’t just turn your device off, pay attention to the weather forecast. This will help you make an educated decision for your own safety.

Some people open their windows during a storm because they believe that the pressure will equalise and the windows won’t shatter. This is a myth! According to experts, opening the windows will only allow the strong winds into the house. The bottom line is – don’t open your windows. It’s a waste of time!

Don’t take chances. Power outages mean packed emergency rooms and delayed ambulance service; it’s a bad time to get injured.

Check out our essential guide to ladder safety.

The chemicals used in concrete – not to mention oil spills on a garage floor – can leach nasty chemicals into your water supply, giving it a bad taste or making it unsafe to drink. Store your plastic containers on cardboard or a wooden pallet.

If your home has been inundated over electrical wiring, power outlets, electric hot water systems or other electrical installations (including switchboards), organise a licensed electrical contractor to check the premises as soon as flooding or water has abated. Do not touch them and do not attempt to unplug them or test them in any way. All electrical appliances affected by water should be inspected by a qualified electrician before use. No matter whether the water on an appliance came from a flood, or through general storm damage, never turn on the power to an appliance until it has been checked first.

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Source: RD.com