It’s that time of year again, Hurricane season begins for all of the Eastern coast and Gulf of Mexico to pay attention. Hurricane season from June 1st to Nov. 30th, as I am one that’s in a bulls-eye zone. I would like for new and old comers to Florida some information.
Weather forecasting has come along way over the years. You will know well in advance a storm is coming! Don’t panic just get prepared. Tune into your local TV weather station and listen to the meteorologists.
Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
1. To Evacuate or not?
If you live right on the coast, and it looks like the storm is going to be coming your way, it may be a good idea to evacuate! People near the beach are the most vulnerable. You will want to get as far off the coast as possible. Just remember hotel rooms and roads fill up fast, so leaving earlier is the key. Or stay with Family or friends as my parents do in land. Second, you live in a mobile home the same as above.
2. Make a bug out bag
This is a must to grab and go! Just because your inland does not mean your totally safe from the storm. You must have 3-10 days of food and water and remember the power may go out. Here is a PDF checklist:
3. If you shelter in place
Prepare to take care of yourself for 3-10 days, your on your own. Cover or brace windows and doors. Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind (chairs, tables, grills, etc.) Pools drain down 6″-12″ for rainfall, Disconnect power to the pool pump. If you have a screen porch, remove a screen door or panel on each end to reduce wind air flow, cutting down on resistance that may save your enclosure.
Move your family to an interior room or closest bringing everything you need with you till the storm passes. After the storm is over more than likely power will be out, have materials to make repairs and keep you dry and safe.
Animals
I am an animal lover, as many are you.They are sometimes forgotten in these circumstances. They need water and food as well, please shelter them the same way as you would protect yourself.
I would have animals chipped or marked on them just in case they escape or get loose. Remember they don’t understand how bad the weather is going to be. I have crates for house pets, having them confined, may make them feel safe.
After the Storm
After the storm, let loved ones know your safe. I like my Family we are spread out across the state have a contact person out of town since if towers are down, you cannot reach each other.
Determine if your home is damaged, remove sandbags and check windows for cracks plus leaks.
Cover damaged property to prevent further damage. And document everything with photos of before and after to show the property damage.
Go to:https://https://media.forthepeople.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/PA_Hurricane for further information
Please be Patient
Above all, be patient, It takes time for power, water, and government to move into place and begin repairs. Be thoughtful of others, whether at the store or gas station. Look in on your neighbor, help each other cover damaged areas, and clean up yards.
Remember we are all in this together whether you are an evacuee or live in the area be helpful and kind.
So have a plan before the storm hits, follow, don’t worry what others think. It just may save your life!
I hope these tips have helped you, And here’s to hoping we do not have to use them this year.
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Author: Merrell Gray