Plan and Make a Plot
Let’s begin this discussion by emphasizing the importance of creating a hurricane plan well in advance of hurricane season. Start by noting down emergency phone numbers – both written on your fridge and programmed into your cell phone – for each contact in your household, as well as an emergency supply kit and shelter in case a disaster arises. Don’t forget to find shelter before storm season hits either; plan multiple routes to reach it!
Pet owners: we have you covered too. Pre-select shelters that welcome your furry friends, find pet-friendly hotels, or arrange to have someone from outside your area provide support should evacuation become necessary. Also consult local animal shelters on what action should be taken with regard to evacuating animals if evacuation becomes necessary.
Gather Emergency Supplies
Let’s now talk about gathering the essential items needed to keep you and your family safe during and after a hurricane. Imagine having no power or water supplies available, car damage becoming impossible to drive over due to flooded roads and driving impossible due to damage, car insurance being unavailable etc.
To prevent being caught unawares by this scenario, start stockpiling emergency food, water, medicine supplies. Keep emergency power sources, flashlights (don’t forget extra batteries!), safety and personal items (medical records, wills, passports and identification) close at hand – as well as an effective fire extinguisher (with backup power sources if possible).
Understand Hurricane Alerts
It’s essential that you understand the difference between a “watch” and “warning”, so stay tuned to National Weather Service alerts via TV, radio, or online sources. A watch indicates possible conditions for tropical-storm-force winds 48 hours in advance while warnings can provide advanced notification up to 36 hours prior to hurricane-force winds arriving at your area.
Prepare Your Car
Your car is your escape pod, so make sure it’s prepared before a storm strikes. Fill up that gas tank, move vehicles to shelter and keep an emergency kit on hand in your car. If you don’t own one yet, consider making plans with friends or family for transportation in case evacuation becomes necessary.
Preparing Your Family and Pets
Prioritize family! Review your emergency plan with loved ones, as well as staying updated on storm updates. For those in your family who require special assistance due to age or disability, reach out to hospital personnel, public health departments, or police departments for guidance or advice. And don’t forget about our four-legged companions – have an emergency plan in place that ensures their wellbeing as well.
Preparing Your Home
Proper preparation of your home for storm season is paramount. As such, clear away debris in your yard that could become projectiles during a storm and use storm shutters or plywood panels on windows and doors to shield them from flying debris. Also prepare to turn off power if necessary and fill clean water containers before checking carbon monoxide detector batteries to reduce poisoning risks.
Evacuation and Stay-at-Home Strategies
It is wise to listen to authorities when determining whether it is necessary to evacuate. In such a scenario, grab your emergency kit, unplug appliances, turn off gas, electricity and water utilities as directed and follow any recommended evacuation routes outlined by authorities if prompted to do so by authorities. Never disregard an evacuation order as your safety must come first!
If advised to remain indoors during a hurricane, make sure your emergency supply kit is close at hand, keep updated via radio or television and remain inside until hearing an official message that says the hurricane has passed. Even if the weather appears calm outside, wait until hearing this news before venturing outside.
A Hurricane Calls For Water Damage Restoration
Your best defense against hurricanes lies in being prepared. By following this ultimate hurricane prep checklist, you are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of yourself and those closest to you. Stay informed through reliable sources; listen to advice from authorities; and remember – early preparation can make all the difference when winds begin howling!
If a hurricane ever comes to visit you, we can help you with you with your water damage restoration services here in Katy, TX. We’re available 24/7.
