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What to expect from Hurricane Season 2020

According to an article posted on WPTV, “we should prepare for an above-average hurricane season.” As Floridians know, expecting a hurricane to make landfall anywhere near one’s home is no joke. Expecting a major hurricane is just simply frightening. The Florida Disaster Organization has a very useful printable guide for preparedness everyone should print and follow as much as possible.

There are other safety tips you should be mindful of including the following:

Plan an evacuation route

Evacuation could be necessary if a major hurricane is headed for your area, or if you reside in a mobile home or coastal region. Instructions will be provided by the respective authorities if problems arise. Having an evacuation plan prepared prior to these warnings is always a good idea, though. This approach allows you to locate the nearest shelters first. It is also recommended to have a plan and stick to it. Making last minute decisions may put you and your loved ones at risk.

FEMA has another great printable guide for reference on how to prepare for a hurricane.

As part of your plan, you should always know what you will do with your pets when an evacuation takes place. While not all shelters allow pets, there are hotels that will make exceptions and allow your four-legged friends. It is always a good idea to try and call ahead of time to make arrangements and know your options.

Be Sure to Have Essential Supplies on Hand

Once a tropical storm warning is issued, this is when individuals start to search for essential supplies. This can get rather frustrating when time is of the essence. Don’t make the mistake of waiting until the last minute. This decision could leave you without adequate supplies. Make sure you have the following essentials beforehand:

• Batteries
• Lamps with candles and fuel
• A water-tight container full of matches
• Tools and materials for emergency home repair
• Prescribed medications for you and your loved ones
• 3 days’ worth of drinking water – at least 5 gallons of water per person
• Clean water containers
• Supplies to ensure water safety (chlorine bleach or iodine tablets)
• Food that does not require preparation
• A first aid kit
• Fire extinguisher
• Weather radio (NOAA)
• Flashlight
• Pet food (for families with pets)
• Enough baby formula or food (when needed)
• Extra blankets/sleeping bags
• Hand sanitizer
• Baby wipes

Prepare an Inventory

The items that belong to you should all be listed ahead of time. This allows for insurance claims to be processed much faster. The inventory serves as a handy guide for substantiating any losses. Keep the inventory in your important documents folder once it has been prepared.

Get the Insurance Policies Reviewed

Take a look at your insurance policy or policies and have them professionally reviewed at your earliest convenience. This is a great way to avoid potential disputes. The home insurance policy should cover the cost of repairs caused by tropical storm damage, required living expenses, etc. It does not cover flood damage, though. Flood insurance coverage must be obtained as well.

Take Necessary Home Protection Actions

Assuring home safety is also a crucial aspect of tropical storm preparation. Here are some crucial precautions to take before a hurricane hits your area:

• Get rid of weak trees and branches so that the roof remains safe.
• Install storm shutters to prevent window breakage.
• Protect exterior doors from tropical storms (have deadbolt locks and hinges installed).
• Use shutters to cover sliding doors (or plywood).
• Replace old garage doors; use a garage brace or lock if you have one.
• Seal outdoor electrical outlets, other wall openings and vents.
• Mobile homes must be secured so that they can withstand high winds. The insurance policy of the mobile must also be reviewed.
• Be sure to bring furniture indoors and clear the yard of other objects that may become airborne in the storm.

Currently, Florida is watching a Tropical Storm named Isaias. Being a Floridian, you know quite well the term “being in the cone.” One of the most important things you may do to prepare is staying informed. WPTV has up-to-date information on current storms. Another great site is NOOA which contains more graphics, times and details.

Stay safe & well