Storms and hurricanes cause large-scale damages during landfall, affecting millions of dollars’ worth of property as well as a loss of life. It then becomes important to ensure that you are fully prepared in the face of such a disastrous event like a hurricane. Preparation for a storm or a hurricane beforehand can thus be a lifesaving step for you and your family and can help protect your property.

Survival items required for such situations need to be placed together where they are easy to find. Some basic items included in a storm survival kit are:

1. First-aid supplies (bandages, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, aspirin, anti-biotic cream)
2. Flashlight
3. Generator
4. Cash- Make sure you have enough cash to last for a few days or even a week. This includes cash for gas and food. Make sure you have smaller bills like $1 and $20 because there may be no change. Lack of electricity will render all kinds of debit/credit cards useless.
5. Water
6. Non-perishable food
7. Gas (For car and generator)
8. Ice
9. Cooler
10. Barbeque
11. Coals for the barbeque

Prepare your home for a storm

It is important to have hurricane shutters or impact windows, especially if you live in Florida. Make sure you buy and install shutters well before the storm season. Your roof and windows should be built in such a way to resist strong winds and impacts.

All damaged branches and trees should be removed before the beginning of storm season. Gutters and drainage pipes should be cleared well in advance. All outside items like chairs, pipes and small plants should be brought indoors.

Family Plan

During hurricane situations, it is important to also plan for the family. By assessing the magnitude of a hurricane, your evacuation should be considered. A Category 3 or higher hurricane generally signals the need for evacuation. Should there be such a case, make sure you plan ahead and carry essential documents and belongings with you.

1. Make sure you have a copy of your home insurance policy and contact numbers.
2. Stay alert about evacuation orders.
3. Be aware of all evacuation routes.
4. Have an emergency meeting place in your neighborhood in case someone gets lost.
5. Every family member should have a phone and list of contacts.
6. Plan for your pets. (Food, toys, dishes, leashes)

Things to do after the storm

1. Never touch anything in contact with power lines,
2. Arrange for temporary repairs and protect your property from further damage.
3. Keep accurate records bills from your temporary repairs.
4. Create a list of any damaged contents
5. Contact your insurance carrier for temporary accommodation if your home is unsafe due to storm damage.
6. Be wary of any gas lines that may have been damaged during the storm.