You Can Never Be Too Prepared! #HurricanePrep2014

May 25-31, 2014 marks Hurricane Preparedness Week and highlights the importance of planning and being prepared when disaster strikes. Being prepared for this natural disaster is vitally important for protecting your family and home.

Starting June 1^st, we will embark on hurricane season which continues through the end of November. Hurricanes can be incredibly destructive and wipe out entire towns and cities. While these natural disasters can be extremely scary, being prepared for them will help you feel more safe and ready to tackle the storm.

One of the first things you should do with your family is build an emergency preparedness kit and make a family plan. A previous blog post shares excellent tips and tools for preparing your family. You can find the blog here:  http://cellphonesally.blogspot.com/2013/09/national-preparedness-month-good-time.html.

Once you have your emergency kit ready, focus on tackling these issues prior to a hurricane heading your way:

v  Identify levees and dams in your area to make sure that they do not pose a hazard to you and your property.

v  Cover all your home’s windows with permanent storm shutters or board up windows with plywood that is cut to fit.

v  Always keep trees and shrubs trimmed down so they are more wind resistant and do not hang over your roof.

v  Make sure to clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.

v  Reinforce doors as well as your garage door.

v  Install a generator for if you lose power.

v  If you live in a high-rise building, make plans to get shelter on a lower floor.

v  Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations and garbage cans to avoid having them fly away.

v  If you are in an area that gets hurricanes more often, it might be a good idea to build a safe room.

 

Hurricanes not only cause strong high winds, but they also cause heavy rains and flooding. By following these tips and tools, your family will be prepared for when disaster strikes. As they say, you can never be too prepared! For more information, please visit http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php. If you ever find yourself in an emergency, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1.