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
