Hurricanes – Be Prepared!

It’s been 3 years since Katrina came. No amount of warnings safeguarded the people who lost lives, property and a load of confidence during that hurricane. The hurricane was violent and destructive, and considering the constant changes our planet is witnessing today, every one of us has to be prepared for eventualities that are beyond our control. With due respect to nature, which sometimes seems to turn ‘red in tooth and claw’, it is essential to be storm smart.

Stay Tuned

More often than not hurricanes and storms give ample warning before they strike. Stay tuned and also let children know which channel or radio station provides such information. But remember that the time period between the bulletin and the actual storm may be relatively short. Hence it is imperative to be equipped all the time.

Before the Storm

Your house may be beautiful but if it doesn’t meet building standards it is going to fall like a pack of cards. The first step is to strengthen the structure as and when your budget allows. Many states like Florida offer free inspection and financial incentives. Depending on the kind of home you have the authorities will ask you to reinforce roof decks, roof to wall connections, brace gable ends of the roof, upgrade exterior doors and fit window shutters that can withstand a hurricane. Once the structure is secured it is important to deal with the other possessions in the home. Make an inventory and update it regularly. This helps in keeping track of what you own and how much it costs. This could be the first step in claiming insurance and rebuilding your home once the storm has past.

Insurance will be a real life saver – but you must know what and how much your policies cover, and renew them regularly. Remember that damage caused by wind and floods is often covered by specific insurance policies. Make copies and keep the originals in a safe place. It is also important to keep other documents like social security cards, driving licenses, deeds and titles, citizenship papers etc. safe and at hand. Once the evacuation process starts you never know what you might need to produce as evidence.

The Evacuation

Information and management is the key factor here. The whole family, including children, the elderly and pets should be included in the plan. Often it helps to have the plan in black and white. List out contact numbers which should comprise not only the police, fire services and hospitals but also telephone numbers and emails of relatives and friends. Medical data about each family member should also be available quickly. Everyone – and especially children – should know when and how to turn off the electricity, gas, water and other utilities.

Non-perishable food items and water which will last for at least three days should be stored in an accessible place. Apart from this a comprehensive kit consisting of essential items like flashlights, medicines, first aid, credit cards, cash, maps, an extra pair of shoes, blankets, raincoats, umbrellas, clothes, toiletries etc. should be put together and kept ready. If you are using a car make sure there is enough gas and you know your destination. Avoid water because it will ruin the vehicle. And though it seems impossible, keep your cool at such times.

The Aftermath

Going back to a storm ravaged home is a difficult and emotional ordeal. Get the property assessed by professionals before repair work starts. Avoid lighting matches and turning on electrical appliances until gas lines have been thoroughly checked. Be wary of pests, snakes and waterborne bacteria, which floods invariably bring with them. Record the damage to the house and claim insurance to start the rebuilding process.