The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1- November 30th.
With hurricane season right around the corner, now is the perfect time to start
your preparations.
The first thing you should do as Hurricane season approaches
is review your insurance policy. This way you know exactly what type of
coverage you have. And, if you feel that it is not adequate, now is the time to
make changes to your policy.
You will also want to keep certain original documents safe
in the event of a hurricane. Gather all important documents such as copies of
wills, birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, bank info, etc. If
you can, these items should be stored in a safety deposit box. If you are in an
evacuation zone and will leave if a hurricane approaches, be sure to have
copies of these documents with you. If you do not have a safety deposit box, be
sure to store all important documents in a sealed plastic bag.
Make sure to stock up on non-perishable food. Make sure you
have plenty of drinking water. The recommended amount of water is 1 gallon per
person for 3-7 days. Non-perishable foods include canned foods, juice boxes,
dry cereals, canned soup, peanut butter and snacks. Don’t forget to buy enough
baby food and food and water for your pet.
Hurricane preparedness doesn’t stop there. Be sure to have
these other items as well:
·
Diapers, wet wipes, baby formula
·
Medications
·
Cash
·
Paper plates, paper cups, plastic ware, can
opener
·
Lanterns
·
Flashlights and batteries
·
Toys, books and games to keep everyone busy
·
Gas up your car in advance
·
Toiletries
·
Fully charged cell phones
·
Battery operated radio
You will also need a first aid kit, just in case. You can
easily make one by adding the following items:
·
Scissors
·
Alcohol
·
Bandages
·
Pain Relievers
If a hurricane is approaching, and you are under a hurricane
warning, it is time to put up your hurricane shutters or plywood. Bring in all
of your outdoor items that could potentially be picked up and hurled in a
strong wind. These outdoor items include lawn furniture, plants in pots, bbq
grills, extra roof tiles, etc. DO NOT PUT ANY OF THESE ITEMS IN THE POOL!
Remember, your safety and your family’s safety is key.
Stay away from windows, resist the urge to go outside to see what is happening,
and listen to your local weather stations for news and updates.
Once the storm is over don’t walk through puddles and
watch for down wires. Remember, it only takes one storm to change your life. Be
careful, take precautions and above all be prepared!
