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.
FEMA Recommends
– Begin preparing by building an emergency kit and making 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.
Other Tips
FEMA also suggests using social media to get you news and alerts. The use of social media will keep phones lines clear. When hurricanes hit, FEMA says text first.
Next step is to take an home inventory of all that you own. A carefully documented home inventory allows you to get information to your insurance provider quickly if your home should experience damage.
This infographic helps you understand what a hurricane is, what dangers exists and the costs of associated with hurricanes.
Stay Safe!
We agree, tracking and documenting your cherished photos is a great way to get prepared during National Preparedness Month.