The danger of hurricanes has been well documented over the last decade. From Katrina to Irene, we know all too well the unfathomable destruction a hurricane can cause. With weather becoming more and more extreme, it’s important to be prepared for a hurricane if you live on or near the ocean. When a hurricane is on the move, here are five steps you can take to protect your loved ones and prized possessions.
1) Get a jump-start: Fortunately, many hurricanes develop slowly, making them easier to detect. Although you might know days in advance that a hurricane is on the horizon, you shouldn’t wait to formulate a potential evacuation plan. While not all hurricanes are severe enough to necessitate evacuating your home, many are. Be sure to listen to local officials and see what courses of action they recommend.
2) Gather food and water: Hurricanes may last a while, so it’s important to collect a sufficient amount of food and water and make sure it’s accessible. Canned goods are most appropriate in this situation because they aren’t perishable. If you decide to weather the storm at home, fill up your bathtub full of water.
3) Take care your valuables: Put all of your prized possessions in clear plastic bags and elevate them as high in your home as possible. This will minimize their risk of water exposure and damage.
4) Monitor your medicine: Make sure you collect extra quantities of any prescription drugs you need. Since some insurers will not pay for refills before they are technically needed, you should contact them to see if they will make an exception. If not, you might just have to pay for your medicine without insurance.
5) Don’t snooze on the news: Check the Weather Channel and other local stations for information about the hurricane. When it comes to these matters, knowledge is power. The more you know, the better you can prepare for whatever punch the storm is poised to throw.
