Hurricane Preparation Tips
Hurricane preparation is important for anyone who lives in a hurricane region. When a hurricane warning is announced, there likely will not be enough time to gather necessary supplies and take steps to safeguard your home from damage. Keep reading to learn a few hurricane preparation tips as recommended by the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
Discuss a Hurricane Plan With Your Family
The first step in preparing for a hurricane comes in making a written family plan. This plan should include identifying the safest locations in your home to wait out a hurricane (typically an interior room with no windows). Escape routes from the home should also be discussed; consider creating a floor plan and walking through each room in your home to identify all possible exit points. If necessary, invest in rope ladders and other items that may aid in home evacuation.
Another point worth discussing is an exterior meeting location for your family. This should be a nearby landmark within close walking distance. As an added safety measure, you might also want to agree on an out-of-state contact that all family members can call in case you get separated.
Create a Hurricane Supply Kit
Following a hurricane, you and your family may be without electricity, water and road access for several days. Because of this, it is recommended you stockpile three to seven days worth of water and food for your family. The NHC recommends one gallon of water per day for each person. Foods should be non-perishable boxed and canned foods. Other items to include in a hurricane supply kit include non-electric can opener, blankets, clothing, first-aid kit, toiletries, flashlight, portable radio, identification documents and batteries.
Protecting Your Home From Hurricane Damage
Property damage is a major concern when it comes to a hurricane. As a result, safeguarding your home should be considered when thinking about hurricane preparation. First and foremost, you may want to review your insurance policy to ensure hurricanes and flooding are covered by your policy. Following this, you may want to install roof straps, storm shutters and structural supports to minimize the potential for home damage.