Florida Hurricane Preparedness in 2020

Florida Hurricane Preparedness 2020

Now that we are in the 2020 Hurricane Season, how many of us aren’t ready if a storm does come to our area this year?

We have provided a link from the Manatee County Emergency Management that is full of valuable information as well as some tips below from The American Red Cross below. Take a few minutes and read thru the information to ensure you family is safe and prepared. If you are up north for the season and still need some things done at your home, Shield Home Watch can help you with those projects as well.

Living in hurricane-prone areas means it’s essential to be prepared before, during, and after a storm. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get ready if a hurricane is coming, what supplies to have on hand, and the key steps to take after it passes.

1. What to Do if There’s a Hurricane Coming

Being prepared before a hurricane hits can make a significant difference. Here’s how to get ready:

• Stay Informed

  • Monitor reliable weather updates from the National Hurricane Center or your local news station.
  • Sign up for emergency alerts and download weather apps that provide real-time information.

• Prepare Your Home

  • Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure items like furniture, grills, and garden tools that could become projectiles in high winds.
  • Install Hurricane Shutters: Protect windows and doors with hurricane shutters or plywood if shutters are unavailable.
  • Check Your Roof: Ensure it’s in good condition and that gutters are cleared to prevent water backup.
  • Trim Trees: Trim branches and remove dead limbs to reduce the risk of them falling on your property.

• Gather Emergency Contacts and Plans

  • Have a list of emergency contacts and share your evacuation plan with family members.
  • Identify your nearest shelter, and if you’re in an evacuation zone, be prepared to leave when advised.

• Protect Important Documents

  • Store important documents like IDs, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof container or save digital copies in a secure, cloud-based account.

2. Essential Hurricane Supplies

Having a well-stocked emergency kit is crucial. Here’s what you should gather:

• Water and Food

  • Water: One gallon per person per day for at least three days.
  • Non-Perishable Food: At least a three-day supply of canned goods, protein bars, and other non-perishables.

• Medical and Hygiene Supplies

  • First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, tweezers, and any prescription medications.
  • Sanitation Supplies: Items like hand sanitizer, toilet paper, personal hygiene products, and garbage bags.

• Tools and Emergency Gear

  • Flashlights and Batteries: Preferably LED flashlights for longer battery life.
  • Portable Battery Charger: Essential for keeping cell phones and other devices charged.
  • Manual Can Opener: Necessary if you’re relying on canned food.
  • Battery-Powered Radio: Helps keep you updated if the power goes out.

• Personal Essentials

  • Clothing and Bedding: Pack extra clothes and blankets in case of flooding or long power outages.
  • Cash: In case ATMs or card systems are down.
  • Pet Supplies: Food, water, and any required medication for your pets.

• Special Items

  • Baby Supplies: Diapers, formula, and food if you have infants.
  • Important Documents: Keep these in a waterproof bag for quick access in an evacuation.

3. What to Do After the Hurricane Hits

Once the hurricane has passed, follow these steps to stay safe and assess the damage:

• Stay Alert

  • Listen to official updates to know when it’s safe to go outside or return home if you evacuated.
  • Avoid going outside immediately after the storm; there may be hazards like downed power lines or weakened structures.

• Check on Loved Ones and Neighbors

  • Contact family members and neighbors to make sure everyone is safe.
  • Assist vulnerable neighbors, such as the elderly, who may need help but can’t ask.

• Document and Assess Damage

  • Take Photos: Document any damage to your property before starting clean-up, as photos are helpful for insurance claims.
  • Check for Structural Damage: Carefully inspect walls, roofs, and foundations. Avoid any areas that look unstable.

• Avoid Hazards

  • Stay Away from Floodwater: Floodwater can be contaminated or electrically charged.
  • Avoid Downed Power Lines: Treat all power lines as live, and report any downed lines to your utility provider.
  • Inspect Appliances Carefully: Flooding may damage electrical systems, so avoid turning on appliances until they’re inspected.

• Begin Clean-Up and Repairs

  • Wear protective gear, such as gloves and masks, if dealing with debris or water damage.
  • Clear branches and debris cautiously, and keep an eye out for displaced wildlife that might have been brought in by the storm.

• Contact Your Insurance Provider

  • Report any property damage as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
  • Ask your insurer if they can send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine coverage for repairs.

• Prepare for Extended Power and Water Outages

  • Plan for ongoing power outages; use generators safely and ventilate properly if they’re in use.
  • Conserve water if advised, as utility disruptions are common after a major storm.

Final Thoughts

Hurricane preparedness is essential to safeguard your family, home, and peace of mind. By knowing what to do before, during, and after the storm, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the challenges and make the recovery process smoother. Remember, staying calm and prepared is the best way to protect yourself and those around you.

Call us at (941) 735-4405 or visit Shield Home Watch to learn about home watch, key holding service, concierge services, and more. If you would like to book an appointment 24 hours a day please visit our booking site.