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Hurricane Preparation Guideline

Hurricane Cause Billions of Dollars in Damages Every Year

It’s estimated that every year hurricanes cause around $28 billion in damages across the nation. Furthermore, the state of Florida takes the brunt of these damages by a wide margin. The Sunshine State incurs about 55% of the total costs associated with hurricanes in the U.S.

Make a Plan and Be Prepared for Hurricane Season

Given the unpredictable nature of the weather, you can never be sure exactly when or where a hurricane will hit. That’s why planning a course of action and making the appropriate preparations beforehand are so incredibly important. There are numerous ways that you can do to prepare for a hurricane.

Gathering Information is the First Step of Preparing for a Hurricane

Know the elevation of your property and the surrounding areas, Pay close attention to flood zones, low lying areas, and steep drop-offs. This will help you develop your emergency evacuation plan.

  • Be aware of all bodies of water near your home, especially dams and levees, Figure out how much of a threat they pose so that you can avoid harm and minimize damage.
  • Take the time to develop an evacuation route including two predetermined meeting points. The first should be right outside or near your home. The second location should be fairly close but, outside the neighborhood in case, your home becomes inaccessible.It’s a good idea to review your plan with everyone a couple of times a year, including all locations and phone numbers. Locate nearby community shelters and make sure to go over them when you review your evacuation plan with your family and neighbors.

    Stock Up on Essential Supplies and Have them Easily Accessible

    You’ll want to have secured enough nonperishable foods and bottled water to last at least a week. Also, make sure you have enough of any prescription medications that your family and pets will need.

    Remember to refill on gas at the first sign of a bad storm and try not to let it get below ¾ of a tank. Have a couple of bags packed with car chargers for cell phones, flashlights, batteries, a radio, a first aid kit, clothing, towels, maps, and matches in a sealed container. You might also want to pack tarps, rope, sleeping bags, duct tape, and tools.

    Prepare Your Home for the Wrath of the Coming Hurricane

    If you don’t have adequate storm shutters, board-up all windows with 5/8″ marine plywood. Tape won’t prevent windows from breaking, but if it’s all you have, thoroughly covering the glass will reduce the chance of injury.

    To reduce damage to your roof, install additional clamps or straps to help fasten your roof to the frame of the house more securely. Reinforcing your garage doors is also a good idea. Keep the shrubs and trees on your property well-trimmed, and clean your gutters and downspouts.

    Have a whole-home generator installed for when the power goes out. The extensive damage caused by hurricanes can leave large areas without power for extended periods of time. If you have the space and the means, look into building a secure storm shelter or possibly a safe room.

    Bring inside all furniture, decorations, and garbage cans, as well as anything else that isn’t tied down Be ready to take shelter on or below the 10th floor if you live in a highrise apartment or condo.

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