Hurricanes can be frightening and violent storms that can cause damage to personal property, injuries and even deaths to those who are not prepared. Being ready when a hurricane is coming in your direction is the best way to survive it and to protect your family when it occurs. The following tips will help you to prepare for impending storm and to survive it.
The first thing that you need to do is to establish an emergency plan with your family. You need to set up certain chores that each family member is responsible for to prepare the house for a storm. They should know how to contact one another, where to go and where all emergency supplies are located in the home in case you are stuck and cannot evacuate. It is imperative that you practice and go over this plan periodically to keep it fresh in everyone’s mind.
Your home needs to be protected from strong winds, rains and debris that will be part of the hurricane. Your shutters should be in good condition and not loose or damaged. They should be able to fit tightly to protect your windows. Keep a supply of plywood, nails and a hammer in an easily accessible place so you can quickly cover parts of your home. Have a fireproof safe in your home that includes photographs of all of your important personal property and important documents.
Having sufficient emergency supplies on hand can be the difference between survival and struggle during a storm. Keep a supply of clean and safe plastic containers in one location that you can fill tap water with. This is much easier than purchasing bottled water. Put a small amount of bleach with water inside, cap the bottle, shake it and then rinse it out thoroughly with water to sterilize the container. Then you can safely fill it with tap water and put it back for an emergency. Keep a container of sealing caulk for sealing the bathtub drain so that you can fill the tub with water for other needs.
Store emergency supplies in a large plastic tub and put them in the same place where you will keep your water. Include the following items inside:
-extra clothing
-first aid kit
-canned food and a can opener
-hygiene products
-fire extinguisher
-trash bags
-extra money
-medication
-basic tools
-toilet paper
-portable camp stove with fuel
-disposable eating utensils
You need to sit down with your insurance agent and make sure that you have the appropriate coverage for your family and your personal property in the event of a storm. Ask questions and be sure that you understand what your insurance policy will cover and what is excluded. This can make a huge difference in the costs after the storm is over.
By giving early preparation, having an emergency plan and knowing what to do when the storm hits can help you to survive. This is why taking the time now to get ready is so important to protect you and your family.