Hurricane is a tropical cyclone that can bring severe damage to nature, properties and people. It is one of the most dangerous, devastating catastrophes you can experience.
As one of the most violent storms that can happen on Earth, it can be scary and you feel this as a serious threat that can possibly ruin your investments or cause death in the family. So protecting everything you have is crucial but YOU and your family’s safety should be your utmost priority. So staying behind your property will not be the best idea.
Here are the 11 things you can do before the hurricane strikes:
- Plan your evacuation – Before the hurricane you must be able to identify all the evacuation routes if you reside near the coast. Make sure you have discussed with your family meeting spots and have a strategy on how you will reconnect with them in case you are separated. Also include your pets in your evacuation plan. Have a go-bag ready so you can just grab them in case of emergency.
- Make a basic first aid kit – Stuff your first aid kit at your condominium with all the emergency essentials that includes bandages, trauma pad, flash light, batteries, alcohol and other things that can be useful in times of emergencies.
- Close all the windows and doors and reseal if necessary – Some of your doors and windows can have small damages over time and these can be a problem in times of a hurricane. Inspect these important components by checking the window frames and panes thoroughly for you to find which parts needed a quick repair.
- Be ready for long-term power outages – With the strong wind brought by the hurricane it is possible that it could damage electrical posts in your neighborhood. Consider buying a generator. It doesn’t have to be an expensive one but you can purchase something to help you charge your phone, emergency light or any electrical items that are essential to your home.
- Trim branches that touch your property – Some tree branches grow faster than you thought and it could be approaching your home. In preparing for the hurricane, trim back these branches to allow the wind to pass through without damaging your home.
- Check your roof – The roof is another important part of your house that you need to check to prepare for the hurricane. The roof is exposed to wind damage and if not properly secured, it can be peeled right off leaving you with no roof protecting your heads. Prevent this from happening by sealing it to keep it more intact before the hurricane.
- Clear the clutter outside your home – Do you want to see things flying off outside your house? If you don’t, then it’s time to clean up before the hurricane strikes. Sweep the driveway, throw all the trash and put lightweight outdoor furniture inside.
- Check your insurance policy – Before the hurricane, you need to revisit your insurance policy. Do you have enough coverage? Finding out not having enough coverage after the catastrophe, is equally traumatic as the damage brought by hurricanes to your home. Get in touch with your agent about hurricane deductibles and other questions you might have about your policy.
- Be updated on local weather reports – It is important to standby and watch the news from the television, radio or the internet to keep you and your family about the hurricane so you can prepare ahead in securing your family’s safety. Also check social media channels and see what is currently happening in other areas and connect with your family and friends in other places.
- Relocate your cars – Before the hurricane can damage your vehicles, move your cars to a higher ground or park them inside your garage against the car doors. Do not ever consider parking them under the trees with other cars, near the power lines and in low-lying areas.
- Build an emergency fund – Hurricanes can cause serious damage in your home. You must have an emergency fund for medical bills. unexpected home repairs such as a new roof, plumbing or electrical issues. Do not rely on government funds in times of disaster. Save at least 3 months worth of your income so you will have funds to cover your expenses.
Last Words
We should all know better than anyone the importance of preparedness and how it can save lives. As the hurricane season is approaching, you might be exhausted from all the natural disasters and the effects of coronavirus but you cannot let your guard down. Muster the strength to prepare for natural disasters. You must always do everything you can to protect yourself and your family because you can always rebuild your home, but once a life is lost you can never get it back.
