When you're living in the Cayman Islands, tropical storm warnings in hurricane season become the norm. It's unnerving, a tad scary and you're praying it won't harm anyone. BUT, there is no denying a teeny tiny part of you inside is secretly hoping work will be called off, the kids won't have school and you can stay in your PJ's all day wrapped in a duvet watching Game of Thrones re-runs until it passes (that's if you're lucky enough to have power).
Don't just sit there biting your nails and worrying, here's how to make the most of a bad weather situation in Cayman.
1. Spend time catching up with your loved ones
Long hours spent at the office mean we don't usually get enough time with partners and family at home. If you're in a tropical storm lockdown, listen to the raindrops on the window, chill out and catch up with those closest to you.
2. Get some R&R
Even in paradise, we all lead stressful lives and during a storm, we worry that the worst will happen and stress even more. Make sure you're prepared with supplies in advance so you can take advantage of your time off at home and get some much-needed rest. Curl up with a book or take multiple naps throughout the day.
3. Enjoy quality time with your pets
Your beloved fur babies love it when you're home all weekend, so they'll be pumped that a storm is coming and you're locked in doors with them. Although bathroom breaks can prove to be difficult, the unplanned hours together are a welcomed treat. You know cabin fever is setting in when you start painting your dog's nails, playing dress-up with your cat, or singing a "duet" to Rhianna's 'Umbrella'.
4. Clean out your closet
Most of us could only dream of finding the time to re-organize the unkempt clothing jungle that is your bedroom. Utilize your hours at home and purge unwanted clothes and other unnecessary treasures you may find in the depths of your wardrobe. Drop them off to the Family Resource Centre or the Red Cross later down the road and you'll feel fab for your good deed.
5. Get fit
Getting fit doesn't happen overnight but you can definitely make a start. Get creative with make-shift equipment, like tables for tricep dips and hit the rug with push ups, jumping jacks and squats - who needs the gym when you have water jugs for dumbbells?
Some tips for getting through a storm:
You may want to go to the sheltered area that you and your family chose for your emergency plan.
If you are advised by officials to evacuate, do so. Take your emergency kit with you.
You can use a cellular telephone during a severe storm, but it's not safe to use a land-line telephone.
Never go out in a boat during a storm. If you are on the water and you see bad weather approaching, head for shore immediately. Always check the marine forecast before leaving for a day of boating and listen to weather reports during your cruise.
If you are in a car, stop the car away from trees or power lines that might fall on you). Stay there.
Hurricane Kit:
Make sure your hurricane kit includes:
Flashlights
Battery-operated radio & lanterns
Spare batteries
Candles and matches
First aid kit
Rain gear
Can Opener
Clean clothes
Extra blankets
Non-perishable food/ canned food a week
Bottled water
Coolers & ice
Dry pet food
