Prepare NOW for Hurricane Season and Other Unexpected Events
Even if you live in a state where hurricanes aren’t the norm, it never hurts to be prepared for natural or other disasters. There are any number of emergencies that could force you and your family out of your home. Or be without water and power and other outside resources while sheltering in your home.
June marks the beginning of our hurricane season and it’s a good time to assess your readiness should you need to evacuate or shelter in place.
For peace of mind, here are 10 helpful tips you can do NOW…
1. Make a Plan and Keep It Handy…
Know where you would go if you did have to leave. Make a list of what you need to take. Don’t rely on your memory.
2. Know What Your Insurance Covers…
It’s a good idea to have an annual check of your policy. Don’t assume that just because you have insurance that everything will be covered. For example, call your carrier to learn the difference between flood and water damage and see if you are covered.
3. Gather Your Supplies and Evaluate the Ones You Have
Most of us have non-perishables in our pantry but now is a good time to inventory what you have. Make sure that what you have would not require an oven or microwave! Don’t laugh at peanut butter or crackers!
Check to make sure that you have a can opener and utensils for these supplies. Check your First Aid Kits
Buy a case or gallon jug of water every time you go to the market. Remember-one gallon a day per person.
If you have a generator, make sure you know how to use it, have fuel for it, and that it works! Remember...do NOT use it indoors.
Check your flashlights, batteries, and any other emergency equipment you might need. If you’ve stored batteries in a flashlight that you haven’t used in a while, be sure to check that there’s no corrosion.
If you have external batteries for charging your devices make sure they’re charged and you know where they are.
Note: Invest in a headlamp for hands-free lighting!
4. Photograph and/or Video Your Home and Its Contents.
5. If You Aren’t Already Doing So…Make Sure Your Devices Are Backed Up
It’s also a good idea to have a Hard Copy of important information in case you don’t have access to power. Think about it...would you know the phone numbers of your nearest relative or friends without looking at your phone? This list would include medical and insurance information, financial information, and key contacts.
6. Prepare Your Home
Trim tree limbs that could damage your home in high winds. Make sure that your battery-operated tools are charged. Check for leaks.
7. Prepare Your Car
If you’ve been needing new tires or have deferred maintenance, get them done. Check items that you always have such as a flashlight, first aid kit, and road map.
8. Download Government and Emergency Alert Apps
9. Have an Emergency “To Go” Bag
What if you had to leave your home with only a few minutes’ notice? Would you know what to take and would you be able to gather it quickly?
Medication? Glasses? Keys? Checkbook and credit cards?
10. Prepare Items for Your Pets
Besides water, food, and medication, you’ll need their proof of shots, etc.
Odds are you’ll never need these but give yourself peace of mind by being ready.
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