How to behave during extreme weather events: a simple guide to protect yourself - how technology can help

In recent days, Calabria, Sicily, and Sardinia have been facing heavy rains, winds over 100 km/h, storm surges, and blackouts. Situations like these require clear and immediate actions, because safety depends above all on how you prepare and how you act during the emergency.

Below is an essential guide to responsibly facing extreme weather events, with a focus on how professional technologies – such as those from Aviotech – can support citizens and rescuers.

   

Before the event: proper preparation

1)  Get informed

• Check only official sources (Civil Protection, Municipality, Region).
• Check the alert level and what it entails.
• Avoid spreading unconfirmed news.

2) Secure the house

• Remove objects from balconies and terraces that could be lifted by the wind.
• Clean gutters and drains.
• Prepare flashlights, batteries, power banks, and a small supply of water.

3) Plan movements

• Avoid unnecessary travel.
• Do not park near rivers, underpasses, trees, or exposed coasts.
• Keep the car with enough fuel in case of sudden emergencies.

During the event: safe behaviors

1) Avoid dangerous situations

• Do not cross underpasses or flooded roads.
• Do not approach rivers, streams, or coasts during storm surges.
• Do not go out to take photos or videos: it is one of the main causes of accidents.

2) Stay in safe places

• Stay at home or in stable buildings.
• Stay away from windows exposed to the wind.
• In case of blackout, use flashlights and not candles.

3) Communications

• Limit calls to avoid overloading networks.
• Use short messages to update family and friends.

After the event: caution and assessment

1) Watch out for residual dangers

• Avoid damaged buildings, leaning trees, and fallen power lines.
• Do not enter flooded garages or basements without authorization.
• Do not walk in stagnant water: it may hide holes or cables.

2) Document the damage

• Only if the area is safe, photograph any damage for insurance or reporting purposes.

The role of technology: how Aviotech supports safety

During extreme weather events, technology can make a difference.
Aviotech solutions, designed for critical scenarios, offer concrete support to citizens, volunteers, and rescue teams.

Emergency lighting

• Example: Light towers and portable systems to operate even during blackouts, resistant to rain, wind, and extreme conditions.

Signaling

• High-visibility beacons to mark risk areas, safe routes, or restricted zones. Useful for guiding teams and citizens in chaotic or poorly lit contexts.
• Transmission radios for calls for help in the absence of communication infrastructure

These technologies do not replace rescuers, but increase their safety and effectiveness, reducing response times and improving emergency management.

Conclusion

Facing extreme weather events requires attention, responsibility, and proper tools.
Correct behaviors protect people; reliable technologies – such as those from Aviotech – support those on the front lines.

Chiara Abbate

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