Earth's climate is changing whether we like it or not. More and more believe it is down to global warming or as many prefer to call it climate change. The theory is simple, as we increase our emissions and gases into the atmosphere the earth slowly becomes warming, which ultimately leads to the melting of the polar ice-caps. Resulting in a rise in water levels around the world.

Natural disasters are on the rise and seem to be much more common than ever before. If you live on the coastline you may already be experiencing flooding along with many other forms of nature, that are only getting stronger. This is why its more important than ever to be prepared. Regardless if you believe this theory or not, the statistics confirm that it is an issue that must be taken serious.

So what are the first steps that must be taken in order to ensure the safety of the family and the home. The most common hurdle that most people are likely to face is a power failure. This can range from specific districts to entire cities. The other is flooding. This can be down to the location of the home, but both are more common than one would think.

If flooding is an issue then it is possible to purchase sandbags. If the flooding is a common occurrence or has been foreseen many councils or police stations may provide the community sandbags. These must be placed in front doorways and any other opening where water can enter. They can also be used to weigh-down drain covers, furniture and items that must remain outside. If the water passes through or above the sandbags don’t fret, they provide another benefit which is to stop any sediment or dirt that often occurs when there is flooding. This can do the most damage, besides the water damage.

If the council are unable to provide a large supply of sandbags for home-owners and local businesses, and the flooding can occur several times a year. It would be wise to invest in sand and bags. Sand is cheap and has no shelf life. All it takes is a spade and a number of bags. Two people can fill the bags with reasonable ease. Taking matters into your own hand can make a difference. Especially to reduce the damage as much as possible.

It is recommended that 6 sandbags are required to protect up to 20cm of water. Taking into account several openings, can soon add up. Remember to raise any electronics or important items and products of value in the home. Moving these up-stairs in the bedroom will protect these and make it easier to clean up any damage or sediment.

The next issue is power outages. This can effect just as many as flooding. But will require a different approach to resolve. The first requirement is to rent or purchase a generator for the home. These can run using both diesel and bio-fuel, therefore cost is not too much of an issue to run for extended periods. It is important to decide which are essential items to power, during a power failure. Most portable generators can accommodate the fridge and freezer at minimum. Food as we all know is perishable and can ruin if not chilled or left frozen. Of course having a healthy stock of cans and bottled water is essential. But by keeping food refrigerated and frozen can allow for normal living conditions, especially if there is enough power for a radio, the TV, mobile phone chargers and any other home comforts that could be useful during an emergency.

It will be wise to conduct plenty of research and taking note of all the safety precautions before using a generator. It is highly recommended to seek a quiet generator rental or purchase, because the generator will remain close proximity to the home.