June 1st marks the first official day of the Atlantic hurricane season. What do we expect to come? Forecasters from National Hurricane Center are predicting a dozen of named storms. Climate change makes hurricane more dangerous with possible more large and powerful storms, more likely to drop big amount of rain, and, the sea level rise will make the storm surges more dangerous.
You need to take this year’s hurricane season seriously to protect your safety and property safety. Here are the 6 things to do to get yourself better prepared.
1. Reinforce Your Property
Securing windows and doors, trimming trees, installing hurricane shutters, and reinforcing roofs as early as possible.
- Cover all your windows, either with hurricane shutters or wood.
- Although tape can prevent glass from shattering everywhere, be warned that tape does not prevent the window from breaking.
- If possible, secure straps or clips to securely fasten your roof to the structure of your home.
- Make sure all trees and shrubs are trimmed and clear rain gutters.
- Reinforce your garage doors.
- Bring in all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, decorations, and anything else that is not tied down.
- If winds become strong, stay away from windows and doors and close, secure and brace internal doors.
2. Get Your Emergency Preparedness Kit Ready
Get a comprehensive list of essential items including important documents, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and water. This kit will also be useful if you are able to stay in your home, but are still affected by the storm, such as through the loss of power.
Some recommended items to include are:
- Non-perishable food (enough to last at least 3 days)
- Water (enough to last at least 3 days)
- First-aid kit (include any prescription medication you may need)
- Personal hygiene items and sanitation items
- Flashlights (have extra batteries on hand)
- Battery operated radio (again, have extra batteries)
- Waterproof container with cash and important documents
- Manual can opener
- Lighter or matches
- Books, magazines, games for recreation
- Special needs items: pet supplies and baby supplies if applicable
- Cooler and ice packs
- A plan for evacuation and for if family members are separated
3. Have an Evacuation Plan
Have an evacuation plan in place including information about local evacuation routes, emergency shelters, and considerations for tenants in rental properties.
4. Review Your Flood Insurance
Review your flood insurance policies and ensure adequate coverage for potential hurricane damage. Pay attention to flood insurance, windstorm coverage, and remember to document property conditions before and after a storm.
5. Post-Hurricane Recovery
After a hurricane, do a thorough inspect of the property for damage, contact insurance providers, and connect with reliable contractors or restoration services.
6. Expertise and Community Resources
Have a checklist of emergency management agencies, community organizations, and online platforms for sharing updates and information. Recommended Hurricane updates and resources:
National Hurricane Center https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
State of Florida https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/hurricane-preparedness-guide/
CDC Guide https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/before.html
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