5 Ways You Can Prepare For 2019 Hurricane Season

Hurricane season is here! So, what does that mean for Floridians? From June 1st to November 30th, Floridians check the weather a little closer and usually have a few extra water bottles handy just in case. Here are some helpful tips to keep you aware, prepared, and unafraid this hurricane season.

Preparation Before the Storm

Your home is where all your memories, treasures, and loved ones live so make sure to keep it safe!

• Broad up all window coverings (hurricane shutters are available and easy to make and your local hardware stores).
• Make sure to remove all patio furniture, grills, planters, or any outdoor items that are not securely bolted down.
• Clean up your yard and eliminate all dead branches and loose limbs that could be a hazard to your home or your neighbors.
  

Keep an Inventory of your Personal Property

That same phone you are using to track the weather can also be used to take a video of your home and personal items to ensure your insurance company has you covered if something is to happen.

• Make sure and freshen up on what your insurance policy covers before it’s too late.
• In the event you need to evacuate, be sure your home inventory is among the important documents you take with you.
• Putting your important documents (birth certificates, deed, driver’s license, etc.) in a waterproof container will guarantee their safety.
  

Have an Evacuation Plan

Keep checking the news to track the hurricane’s path so you can create a safe and fast evacuation plan. DON’T wait until the last minute! Your local government will provide updated information as well, but be sure to check local shelters (https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/shelters/), bunker up with loved ones, or book a hotel room ahead of time. Always make sure to fill up your gas tanks as well prior to any storm!

What You Should Have On-Hand

When a hurricane warning is issued, the stores can get a little wild and empty quickly. You may want to consider as much as possible, beat the rush by having these items on-hand:

1. Water Bottles (you can never have too many)
2. Non-Perishable Food
3. Extra Batteries
4. Candles/Matches/Flashlight
5. Sand Bags/Tarps/Plywood
6. First Aid Supplies
7. A Portable Battery Weather Radio
8. A Hammer and other Basic Tools
9. A Hands-free SiteLite

You may want to consider getting a generator or solar panels to assist with your electricity needs after a storm like  solar4POWER, which is a portable solar power system with battery backup which will help run a 12 V fan, charge your cell phone, or even a water filtration kit (creating & treating 30 gallons of drinkable water in 15 minutes).

Try and Relax

You have done everything you could possibly do to secure your home, family, and pets so now it is time to pat yourself on the back for your preparedness, hope for the best, and relax.