Be Prepared for the Hurricane Season

If you live in South Florida you and your family are exposed to Hurricanes year by year. Hurricane Season starts June 1st each year and goes until November 30th. Even we already have excellent forecast methods to anticipate the storms and the path they will have thru the Atlantic Ocean it is important to be prepare with time, remember even if the hurricane do not landfall you can be at risk.

These are some recommendations before the season starts

PREPARATION BEFORE THE SEASON

• Make a list of everything you will need at home for a hurricane
• Investigate the Season Forecast to be prepared and informed. Pay attention to local weather reports
• Know where to go, Investigate all evacuation routes.
• Investigate shelters near you, take into consideration that if you have pets you will need a shelter that allow them
• Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes, and they have storm shutters or Impact Glass windows and doors.
• Make maintenance to your Impact Glass windows and doors.
• Repair your Impact Glass windows and doors if need it, if they are not working properly
• Buy a First Aid Kit
• Have the proper tools, supplies, batteries and flashlights
• Make a family emergency communication plan.
• Before hurricane season trim or remove damaged trees and limbs to keep you and your property safe.
• Purchase a portable generator or install a generator for use during power outages. (NEVER try to power the house wiring by plugging a generator into a wall outlet.)

These are some recommendations to be prepared before the storm, during the storm and after the storm. Don’t wait until last time to be prepare.

PREPARATION BEFORE THE HURRICANE

• Buy non-perishable food and plenty of water for several days for you and your family
• Pay attention to local weather reports and evacuation alerts
• Make sure you have plenty of fuel
• Have a secure room available
• If your house is not prepared for a hurricane or is not safe enough go to a shelter or to a family or friend home that is secured.
• Protect windows and doors
• Secure outside objects
• Talk with your family about the plan you have for the hurricane and evacuation Stay in Secure Room.
• Close storm shutters, and stay away from windows.
• Buy a gas stove for cooking, remember power could be out
• Take cash and copies of your critical information if you need to evacuate
• Buy all the medications you need
• Turn your refrigerator or freezer to the coldest setting and open only when necessary.
• Charge your cell phone so you will have a full battery in case you lose power.
• Keep your car in good working condition, and keep the gas tank full; stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes.

DURING THE STORM

• Remain indoors
• Stay away of windows and doors or go to your safety room
• Pay attention to weather news and bulletins
• Do not use the phone or candles
• Have supplies on hand.
• Control water and food consumption, be sure you don’t eat and drink everything in a short period, be prepare for the damages after the hurricane.
• Let friends and family know where you are.

AFTER THE STORM

• Pay attention to local weather reports and be sure the storm has completely passed before going out
• Be patient
• Report downed power lines, and stay away from them.
• Report health issues and house damages
• Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media.
• Avoid flood water as it may be electrically charged from underground
• Photograph the damage to your property to assist in filing an insurance claim.