Today hurricane season started again. Ok Floridians it is time to be sure you are prepared. The television did a great program on this again with tons of great tips. 2005 broke all the record books 28 storms 2006 was quiet to say the least.
So are you ready even the simpliest things can help.
First and foremost listen to the warnings and be sure your family survival kit is ready and evacuation route clear. Like the boyscouts be prepared!
What does a disaster plan include and what do you need in that survival kit? A weather radio, food and water for 3 days at a mnimum, insurance information, and cash.
Keep this in a conveniently located place and don't forget your pet's needs too.
If you live along the coast the greatest threat of the hurricane is a storm surge, winds can be amazingly intense but more damage comes from water. Just ask anyone that dealt with this during Katrina.
The greatest threat for anyone who doesn't live at the beach is flooding. Flooding causes half of all deaths related to hurricanes following the storm.
If you have damage you need to have personal inventory, flood insurance and home insurance papers. Read and understand your policy and know what is and is not covered. Separate policies may be needed to cover incoming water which standard policies do not cover. It may also be helpful to leave a copy with family not in Florida. Just as when you are traveling leaving a copy of your passport with a family member is not a bad idea.
Around your home during a hurricane the point of most frequent structural damage is your garage door. They are segmented usually get the most damage. Still protecting your windows with 3/8th inch plywood or hurricane shutters is also recommended. If one window goes so can the roof. Tape does not keep a window from shattering.
When should you evacuate? When emergency management gives the order this means the treat is genuine. 50% of the population resides within 50 miles of the coast so get out in time, and move to a designated shelter or relativies inland. Don't forget your pets!
If you are caught in a hurricane and unable to evacuate the safest place to ride it out is an interior room without skylights, glass doors or windows. Best of all an interior storm safe room..and add an ax to your survival kit. Under no circumstances should you drive your car!
What kind of help can you expect none you should be prepared to be on your own for up to 72 hours after the storm. No gas power etc. again the best reason to be prepared.
If you are not effected get out and help your neighbors.
hurricanesafety.org is a great place to start or for another complete list lots of details here.
Check them out further details.
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