Hurricane Season Preparation 101
Hurricane Season Preparation 101
Chances are, Florida homeowners have or will experience a hurricane, and the best way to keep you, your home and family safe is preparing for the worst case scenario. There are certain tips and preparations that should be done to make your summer months easier if an awful rain storm, flood, or hurricane should arise. When it comes to a hurricane, storm surge is a very dangerous occurrence. That is when strong, sturdy, aluminum barriers industrial-grade rubber seals will protect water from coming in through your doors or garage.
Early on in hurricane season, conduct your own home safety check of your roof, gutters and landscape. Take care of any needed maintenance of service ahead of time, either on your own or with a professional. Make space in your garage for any lanai furniture, decorations and/or tools to be stored. As a hurricane approaches, you will be ready to easily clear the yard or lanai and install hurricane shudders or flood barriers as needed.
Importantly, make sure to stock supplies in advance for you and your home. Supplies become limited when it’s days before a bad storm or hurricane; it becomes chaotic and stressful. Stocking up on your hurricane needs ahead of time can reduce that stress. Secondly, discuss with your family members a plan of action if an emergency or evacuation should occur. Grab your supplies, personal belongings and any pets. One helpful tip is completing a home inventory. Having a documented inventory of all your valuable items in the home could help alleviate some of the stress if you need to make and file a claim. By using your Smartphone, take pictures of the contents or write them down in your notes. Send the inventory list to yourself via email making it accessible in case you are unable to get back into your home.
In addition to planning for evacuation, it is important to prepare your home for potential power outages. Purchase a generator or invest in a battery-powered backup system to make certain that you have a source of electricity during an outage. Stock up on non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
When your home is at high risk for flooding, it’s important to minimize water damage by elevating valuable items and furniture off the ground. Move them to higher floors if possible or place them on blocks or pallets. If you live in a flood zone, consider installing flood barriers or sandbags around your doors and windows. This can help prevent water from entering your home. Seal any cracks or openings in your foundation or walls to prevent water seepage. After a flood, it is important to clean up and dry out your home as quickly as possible to prevent mold growth. Remove any standing water and dry out the affected areas using fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows. Don’t forget to dispose of any damaged items that cannot be salvaged. Do you have any questions? Call your flood experts today!
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