Debunking Typhoon Safety Myths

Every time a strong typhoon approaches, social media is flooded with windproof tips like "applying tape" and "opening a window gap." However, some of these methods are ineffective and may even increase risks. Below, we debunk the 3 most common misconceptions and supplement them with the correct approaches, so that everyone can be fully prepared before the typhoon hits.

Myth 1｜Does Taping a "Cross/X" Pattern on Glass Prevent Wind Damage?

Answer: No. Tape does not enhance the glass's resistance to wind pressure or impact; if the glass breaks, the tape may even bond the fragments into larger, sharper pieces, increasing the risk of cuts. At best, it slightly reduces the scattering of shards on large, unprotected glass surfaces, but it cannot be considered a reinforcement. People must still stay away from windows and draw thick curtains.

Myth 2｜Is Opening a Small Window Crack for "Pressure Relief" Safer?

Answer: Wrong. During a typhoon, the pressure difference between indoors and outdoors and wind speed changes are intense; opening a window crack only creates draft currents, which can bring wind, rain, and flying debris indoors, and even make the glass more unstable and prone to shattering. The correct approach is: close and lock all doors and windows tightly, and do not linger near windows facing the wind.

Myth 3｜Is it enough to just apply tape, and can other preparations be omitted?

Correct answer: Not enough. What is truly effective is to complete 4 major preparations before the typhoon:

• Close and lock doors and windows: Inspect all sliding windows, balcony doors, and hinged windows throughout the house, ensure they are tightly closed and locked, and draw thick curtains.
• Store and secure outdoor items: Move items like flower pots and clothes drying racks from balconies, window edges, and corridors indoors; secure oversized items with ropes.
• Indoor safety arrangements: Move beds, desks, and cribs at least 1–2 meters away from glass; designate corridors or windowless rooms as "safe zones".
• Prepare supplies and contacts: Fully charge mobile phones and power banks, and prepare flashlights, waterproof bags, and an emergency contact list.

Pre-Typhoon 4 Major Preparations

• Windows and Doors "Close and Lock Securely"
  • Check all sliding windows, hinged windows, balcony doors, and kitchen/bathroom windows throughout the house; close them tightly and lock them; pull thick curtains/blinds as a second layer of barrier.
  • Reduce indoor air convection; use door gap blockers/towels to temporarily seal gaps to minimize cross drafts.
• Remove and Secure Outdoor Items
  • Move all flower pots, drying racks, and miscellaneous items from balconies, window edges, and fire escape routes indoors.
  • For items that cannot be moved (e.g., large outdoor furniture), secure them with nylon ropes/cable ties to sturdy structures; check if screws on air conditioner outdoor unit covers are loose.
  • Clear drainage outlets and floor drains to prevent rainwater backflow.
• Indoor Evacuation Routes
  • Move furniture such as beds, desks, and cribs 1–2 meters away from glass; keep floors clear of obstacles to prevent tripping during power outages.
  • Designate a windowless interior room/corridor as the "safe zone" for family members to gather.
• Dual Preparation of Supplies and Contacts
  • Fully charge mobile phones and power banks; prepare flashlights, batteries, and waterproof bags.
  • List contacts for property management, emergency repairs, insurance, and relatives/friends; place important documents in waterproof bags.
  • If a window breaks, only perform temporary covering (thick plastic bag + strong adhesive tape), and wait for professional technicians to replace it after the wind weakens.