The weather in the Philippines can be unpredictable. It could be hot and sunny one minute, then it will be pouring rain the next. This is especially true during the latter half of the year, which is officially the rainy season.
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Preparation is a must as soon as the rainy season starts. When August hits and heavy rains become a regular occurrence, home prep goes from optional to urgent. From sudden power outages to unexpected roof or window leaks, having a well-stocked and well-prepared home gives families peace of mind.
Below are some items that every family should have during the rainy season:
1. Rechargeable LED lights, heavy-duty flashlights, and waterproof sealing tape
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The rainy season often brings power outages and leaks, so it’s best to stay prepared. For blackouts, rechargeable LED lights and heavy-duty flashlights can illuminate the home at night. Leaks can be addressed using waterproof sealing tape.
These items can be purchased at MR. DIY. While you’re there, stock up on other rainy day essentials such as heavy-duty batteries, umbrellas, door bottom seals, and rechargeable mini fans.
2. Power bank
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Another must-have during the rainy season is a high-capacity power bank. When power goes out, you’ll need to have a fully charged smartphone so you can stay updated on weather announcements and evacuations, keep in touch with loved ones, and access your bank accounts and e-wallets.
Keep an eye out for how much power capacity you need. A power bank with 5,000 to 10,000 mAh is perfect for one to two charges, while those with 20,000 mAh and up are for those who have multiple devices. Keep several power banks with 20,000 mAh so the whole family can stay connected.
3. Canned goods
Canned goods are always good to have during unpredictable weather, since they don’t require refrigeration, cooking, or any kind of preparation. Simply pop one open, and you have a meal ready within minutes. What’s great about canned goods is that there is a wide variety of options available, from tuna to sardines, corned beef, and luncheon meat. They have a long shelf life, so you can buy them and store them until an emergency comes.
Canned goods are easily available in groceries, but you can order them on demand via Pandamart. Add canned goods to your cart, check them out, and wait until they are delivered to your home or office. Make sure to order ASAP so you are ready when the rainy days come.
4. First aid kit
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The rainy season can weaken the immune system, making us more susceptible to illnesses such as fever, the flu, coughs, and even more serious ones like dengue. We should stock up our first aid kit with multivitamins so we can keep our immune systems strong. These could include paracetamol, anti-diarrhea medication, antihistamines, and wound dressings.
5. A commute-ready kit
Photo: MOVE IT
It’s important to have a commute kit if you need to go out during the rainy season. Ideally, this kit includes a packable rain jacket, a scarf or cap that doubles as a helmet liner, and a refresh kit with travel-size alcohol spray, cooling wipes, and tissue. MOVE IT launched Ride-Ready, which contains these things, available exclusively on GrabMart.
6. Water supply
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We can only go a few days without drinking water, and the rainy season can leave us stranded indoors. A steady supply of clean, sealed drinking water ensures your family stays hydrated, healthy, and prepared, even if you’re stuck at home for days. It’s advised to have at least a gallon of water per person per day, good for three days.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
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