Hurricane season is a dangerous time for Florida residents. From June to November, it’s extremely important to be prepared for the elements. Now that we’re in the middle of a pandemic, it’s even more vital to be ready for severe weather. Below are a few tips to keep you and your family safe during hurricane season.
Before the storm…
- Create an emergency plan, and review the plan with your family.
- Photograph the interior and exterior of your home for insurance purposes.
- Buy a backup power generator, or make arrangements to relocate if a storm warning is issued.
- Hire a professional to trim vegetation growing on or near any overhead power lines.
Preparing for an approaching storm…
- Turn off and unplug unnecessary appliances.
- Turn off swimming pool pumps and filters.
- Crank your fridge and freezer down to their coldest settings, in case the power goes out.
- Unplug your TV before lowering a TV antenna or satellite dish.
- Have important documents and items on hand, such as insurance policies, health insurance cards, birth certificates, social security cards, important phone numbers, prescription medications, etc.
- Have enough food to last you 14 days. Stock up on non-perishables, batteries, medications, baby supplies, and pet food.
- Make sure you have a battery-operated radio.
- Take stock of your emergency equipment. Do you have flashlights, candles, extension cords, cell phone chargers, and emergency generators?
- Charge your cell phone and laptop computer, and keep portable chargers on hand.
- Install plywood over your windows.
- Store patio furniture inside your shed or your home, fasten doors and windows, and move valuables away from windows.