Seven Steps to Take Now for a Safe Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is nearly upon us! While there’s nothing any of us can do to prevent an incoming storm, there are numerous ways to minimize damage and protect yourself and your loved ones in the months to come. Taking these seven steps now can help you have a safe season.

1. Make sure you stay informed.

Knowing when a hurricane is coming is vital to staying safe when a storm hits. Enabling Wireless Emergency Alerts on your cell phone ensures you’ll stay in the know throughout hurricane season. In addition, apps such as WeatherBug, The Weather Channel, Weather Live, Dark Sky, Storm Shield, Hurricane Tracker, Weather Underground and the National Hurricane Center Data can all keep you informed with the latest updates. In addition, a battery-operated multiband radio will give you access to the news if the power is out for an extended period of time.

2. Make a plan.

Time is especially precious when a hurricane is approaching. By drawing up an evacuation plan ahead of time, you can save valuable minutes and help keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation route from your home and know the locations of shelters in your area.

3. Stock up.

Having sufficient supplies on hand is vital to your physical and mental wellbeing if you’re able to ride out the storm at home. Gather at least three days’ worth of nonperishable food, water, hygiene items, batteries and medications, and make sure you have flashlights, blankets and a first aid kit.

Stock up not only for yourself, but for all members of your household—pets included! And, consider what small items might provide comfort for each person and pet. A stuffed animal or favorite toy can go a long way in helping a hurricane be a less harrowing experience.
These same supplies are also important if you need to leave home for a safer area. Storing them in a “go bag” will give you easy access to the essentials whether you’re sheltering in place or evacuating.

4. Pack your car.

If you do need to evacuate, having your car ready to go can help you reach safety as quickly and smoothly as possible. Make sure your vehicle is stocked with emergency supplies such as flares, jumper cables, a first aid kit, water and snacks, and fill the gas tank if you’re expecting a storm.

5. Protect your documents.

Place all important documents such as insurance paperwork and medical information in a waterproof container or save password-protected copies online. This small step can save a mountain of headaches following a storm, as well as help you obtain any care or services you need without unnecessary hassles.

6. Prep your property.

Taking a few preventative measures around your property now can help to minimize the damage your home sustains in a hurricane. These include:

• Making sure your drains and gutters are clear so that water can flow freely.
• Pruning your trees, removing any dead branches and those hanging over your house, and completely removing any trees that are no longer living. (If any branches are in close proximity to powerlines, be sure to hire a professional!)
• Clearing your yard of anything that could become a projectile in strong winds. For example, secure outdoor furniture and put away bicycles, grills and lawn equipment.
• Checking the seals around your windows and doors, and resealing any that are damaged.
• Repairing any damage to your roof.

7. Check your insurance coverage.

Do you know what your homeowner’s insurance policy covers in the event of a hurricane? Don’t wait until after a storm to find out! Look into the details of your policy and consider adding flood insurance if it isn’t included in your current coverage.

For more information on hurricane preparedness, visit ready.gov/hurricanes. From all of us at KGT remodeling, have a safe hurricane season!