During this very challenging time when Hurricane Sandy is on its way to touch land, our HomeZada team 
felt we wanted to remind everyone of hurricane preparedness. It is very important to take precautions during this hectic time to prepare for what could be. This post first ran months ago but timeliness is important. To everyone potentially effected by Hurricane Sandy, please stay safe.
Hurricane season is a time when many that live on coastal cities and states are aware of the potential risks of living in these beautiful areas of the country. Getting prepared for a hurricane requires the following steps provided by FEMA:
- To begin preparing, you should build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan.
- Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate.
- Make plans to secure your property:
- Cover all of your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
- Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.
- Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
- Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.
- Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
- Determine how and where to secure your boat.
- Install a generator for emergencies.
- If in a high-rise building, be prepared to take shelter on or below the 10th floor.
FEMA also suggests using social media to get you news and alerts across so as not to tie up phone lines. When hurricanes hit, FEMA says text 1st (clickorlando.com)
Additionally, take an inventory of all that you own so that you can ensure reaching your insurance provider with accurate data swiftly.
This infographic helps you understand what a hurricane is, what dangers exists and the costs of associated with hurricanes.
http://www.wellhome.com/blog/2011/08/the-power-within-a-hurricane/
