Are You Ready for The Storm? Preparation Tips & Checklist
COMMON YET AVOIDABLE DANGERS
Whether the incoming storm is considered a hurricane, tropical storm, or cyclone, or if it’s level 1 or level 5, the common denominator is high winds and heavy rain and with that often damage and sometimes unexpected injury. Much of this can be avoided with some preparation. It pays to be ready for the storm before you find out it may hit landfall in a week and definitely before the “hurricane warning” is in effect. Your region’s storm-season rolls back around at the same time each year. Start preparing before that season starts. When “Hurricane Un-Named” gets here it may be too late, more will come, and there is no better time than when the sun is shining to get started.
According to the National Weather Service, Tropical cyclones (aka hurricane) are among nature’s most powerful and destructive phenomena. If you live in an area prone to tropical storms, you need to prepare. These NWS Guidelines for Storm Preparation are a great start along with the National Storm Damage Center Guidelines.
One of the most widely under-protected possessions, our vehicles can not withstand extreme wind and water levels, and special precautions are prudent for driving and even parked vehicles. Find out more on safety and vehicles during a storm.
Common, often overlooked but very avoidable storm concerns:
- Running out of gas while in evacuation traffic
- Vehicle Damage – comprehensive coverage during hurricane season
- Getting Lost – When there is no electric, cellular coverage, GPS or phone service remember an old fashion paper map works!
- Branches and Flying-Debris Damage – Trim branches that look unsteady.
- Where to go? – Make sure you have an evacuation route planned a head of time and if possible try to get a head start before the crowd.
- Sanitation and Health – Health is most important. Keep bottled water, canned food, and the other standard emergency kit supplies.
A list of items recommended should be kept packed and ready:
- Battery powered flashlight
- Portable battery powered radio
- Extra batteries
- List of emergency phone numbers
- Prescriptions and essential medicines
- First aid kit
- Nonperishable emergency food
- Bottled water (1 gallon per person, per day)
- Non-electric can opener
- Disposable camera
- Credit cards and cash
- Change of clothing
- Sturdy shoes or boots
- Important papers, identification, and bank information
Some items that you may not yet be familiar with, but should be in the event of a severe storm. These happen to be the most sought after items during a hurricane. Finding them available in advance is probably a good idea, as they may not be available as word gets out when a storm is developing. These items are relatively inexpensive and can save $1,000s and help keep you safe and secure in the end:
- Plywood – secure windows
- Fabric panels – used as a “net” in front of car window and fragile points to ward off flying debris
- Hurricane straps – secure the roof
- Flood barriers – sandbags are standard to keep floodwater out
- Storm panels – often aluminum shutters are affixed as plywood is, to the windows. These can be permanently installed on tracks as well.
- Garage door braces – Most vulnerable to high winds, therefore interior walls and your cars too. Vertical metals braces will do the trick.
Life is full of unexpected weather and events that can take us by surprise. Being prepared is the best way to ward off loss and damage. While that’s not always possible, Title Pro can help get you through the rough times.
Don’t Forget to Stock up on items for a Hurricane Preparation Kit
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