Hurricane season doesn’t officially begin until June 1 but you should be well prepared for it before then. There’s more to being prepared than simply having a flashlight and some batteries. Hurricanes are a major safety concern and each storm is unique. Follow our hurricane preparedness tips to get prepared and stay safe should a storm set its sights on Florida this year.
- Supply kit. Your supply kit should include first aid supplies, enough drinking water and non-perishable food for each person for three days, a battery-operated radio, flashlight, batteries, baby formula and diapers (if applicable), three days’ supply of any necessary medication (if applicable), a map of the area, wet wipes or baby wipes, and garbage bags. The supplies should be kept in a waterproof container that’s easy to move and readily accessible to you; plastic storage totes work well. Should you need to leave your home you should also bring identification for all family members as well as credit cards and cash.
- Develop an emergency plan. Know how to exit your home safely through multiple exits. Assign meeting areas immediately outside your home and also at a separate location should your family be separated. Determine if you live in a hurricane evacuation area and learn how to get to the evacuation route as quickly as possible. Identify a safe place to evacuate to or locate several shelters outside the evacuation zone.
- Insure your home. It’s best to reevaluate your home owner’s insurance policy once a year to assess if your coverage will meet your needs. Even if you don’t live a flood zone you may want to consider flood insurance. You may also want to inquire about additional coverage should you be unable to return to your home in the event of severe damage. It’s also best to keep a photographic inventory of your possessions and store the photos in a fire box, safety deposit box, or other secure location to help make filing a claim easier.
- Stay informed. Should a storm threaten your area monitor the weather reports and announcements from officials. Be aware if evacuation orders are voluntary or mandatory. If you do not evacuate under mandatory orders you may not receive help during the storm should you need it.
We hope it’s a safe and sunny summer for you!