Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
ARE YOU READY FOR THIS YEAR’S HURRICANE SEASON?
We’ve all heard the predictions for this year’s hurricane season and it appears it may be an active one. No need to panic, just be prepared ahead of time. Below are some tips to help you get ready. Most importantly, keep our phone number handy, because our valued clients will always be a priority should you need anything:
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1) Check your roof and gutters. Don’t want to get on your roof, use binoculars and note the areas that have loose or ripped shingles and make certain the gutters are attached to move the water away from your home to reduce flooding in the interior.
2) Installing plywood shutters over all exposed windows and other glass surfaces (including skylights) can offer a high level of protection from flying debris, if installed properly. An important tip, have the shutters cut and ready before any storms approach and mark each one and store them so they can be easily and quickly installed when necessary.
3) Trim and remove any damaged or weak tree limbs that could become “missiles” during a storm.
4) Consider purchasing a generator now, before the rush. For safety reasons, NEVER run a generator in the home or garage.
5) Make sure your home is fully covered from hurricane and flood damage. It’s always a good idea to talk with your insurance agent to be certain.
6) Prepare your hurricane kit (check out the list below)
Jonathan McGrath Construction is available for all of your renovation, custom home and maintenance needs. Now relax, you are in good hands!
HURRICANE CHECKLIST
The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 – November 30. This checklist is provided to assist you in making preparations for the upcoming Hurricane Season.
PREPARING AHEAD OF THE STORM
r Review your insurance policy to determine if you have adequate coverage. Home Insurance Policies do not cover damage caused by flood. A separate Flood Policy is needed to protect your property from flooding. To obtain more information contact your independent agent.
r Prepare an inventory of your personal property and document with photos or videotape. Keep one copy at home and another at a location away from home that will not be damaged in a storm.
r Plan an evacuation route and destination if it is necessary to leave your home.
r Teach your children what to do in the event of an emergency.
r Make a plan for what to do with your pets in the event you must evacuate your home.
r Maintain a supply of water and non-perishable food, juice, etc.
r Have a portable radio, flashlight, cell phone and fresh batteries.
r Have an out-of-state friend/relative as a “family contact”.
WHEN A HURRICANE WATCH IS ISSUED (Threat within 24-36 hours)
r Fill all vehicles with gasoline.
r Check to determine that you have an adequate supply of medicine/prescription drugs.
r Procure cash, as Banks/ATMs may not be available for extended periods.
r Turn refrigerators/freezers to coldest setting.
r Bring outside furniture, toys etc. into the house or garage.
r Cut tree branches that could damage windows or walls.
r Assemble a first aid kit
r Assemble important documents (medical records, insurance policies, checkbook, etc.) in a waterproof container or watertight bag.
r Review evacuation route and destination.
HURRICANE DISASTER SUPPLY KIT
r Canned goods and nonperishable foods that do not need cooking: · canned meats and fish · canned fruits and vegetables · canned soups and puddings · canned fruit juices · dried fruit and nuts · bread, cookies and crackers · peanut butter and jelly · coffee and tea · bottled water
r Manual can opener
r Bottled water (1 gallon per person/per day)
r Prescription medication (2 weeks supply)
r Pet food/supplies
r Water purification tablets (halazone)
r Disposable plates, cups and utensils
r Infant care items: · disposable diapers · baby wipes · baby food · formula
r First aid supplies
r Masking and duct tape
r Flashlight or lantern, with extra batteries
r Battery operated radio, with extra batteries
r Watch or battery operated clock
r Ice chest
r Matches
r Canned heat (sterno)
r Portable outdoor camping stove or grill with fuel supply
r Plastic trash bags
r Plastic sheeting or drop cloth
r Chlorinated bleach
r Personal hygiene items
r Other useful items · work gloves · sun lotion · insect repellent · hammer · screwdriver · pliers · wrenches · handsaw · razor knife · ax or chainsaw · rope caulking · nails and screws · rope and wire · broom, mop and bucket · all-purpose cleaner · ladder · sandbags · portable generators · tree pruner · shovel, rake and wheelbarrow · sheets of plywood
FAMILY COMMUNICATION PLAN
Develop a ‘Family Emergency Communication Plan’ in case family member are separated from one another during an emergency (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work or traveling and children are at school, camp or a friend’s home). You can then develop a plan for safely getting back together. This will help assure everyone that all family members are safe.
r Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as a ‘family contact’. After a disaster, it is often easier to call long distance than locally.
r Make sure everyone knows the name, address and telephone number of the contact person
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