How to Prepare for Hurricane Season, Part 2

Welcome to part two of our hurricane preparedness advice blog. Earlier in the week we discussed the importance of determining your risk, establishing an evacuation plan, and putting together some disaster supplies to avoid leaving everything until the last minute (like everyone else!). Before that, Ted Brown gave a masterclass on what to consider as a real estate agent approaching hurricane season.

Without further ado, here is part two of our list, again with thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA.

Enjoy!

4. Get an Insurance Checkup

Check in with your insurance agent well before hurricane season. Remember that flood insurance must be obtained separately. Prepare your home and vehicles according to the terms in your policy and make sure you know where your insurance documents are located . You will definitely want to take them with you when you evacuate. If you want more information, visit floodsmart.gov.

5. Strengthen Your Home

There are all sorts of things you can do around the house to protect your home from the strong winds that come with hurricanes. Well in advance of the approaching storm, trim the trees on your property, shop for approved window coverings, collect loose outdoor items, secure all doors on your property, and find a safe location for your vehicle.

6. Help Your Neighbors!

Just like the rules for oxygen masks on aeroplanes, you have to take care of yourself (and your family) first. However, many people rely on the assistance of neighbors before and after hurricanes. Help your neighbors collect the supplies they’ll need before the storm. Assist them with evacuation if ordered to do so or check on them after it’s safe for you to head outside.

7. Put Your Plan in Writing

Writing down your plan will help you avoid mistakes when faced with an emergency and ensure everyone in your home is prepared for the next storm. You can then share your plan with others (maybe even your neighbors – see point 7!) and keep all your important documents together for quick access. You should also document all of your valuable with photographs if possible.

So there you have it.

Fingers crossed we will not need to apply this advice in the upcoming hurricane season. I think everyone could do with a respite from nature’s wrath. That being said, if you follow this advice, you will certainly have your best foot forward when the time comes to act.

If you want any more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our local experts!