The hurricane season arrived in dramatic fashion last week.
Hurricane Ian was a significant event that brought massive winds, extremely high storm surges, and flooding to Florida and the neighboring states.
Georgia and the Carolinas were lucky this time. It could have been much worse. Gulf states from Texas to Alabama know the season has started and also feel fortunate. We in the Mid-Atlantic region are welcoming a ‘miss’ this time thanks to the Gulf Stream.
Whether you’re in the next storm’s path or high and dry, knowing how to endure a large storm is critical.
Plan for the following dangers and be prepared:
- Flooding - Rising water and torrential rains will be the most likely risk for anyone in the affected area. Evacuate to higher ground and sandbag low areas if needed.
- Wind - Hurricane-force winds are nothing to sneeze at. Tornadoes are also a potential adjunct. Board up windows if you can and remove loose or leaning objects around your home. They can become javelins of death and destruction.
- Car Risk - Believe it or not, people try to drive in hurricanes. It’s not a good idea. Park on a hill or high spot if you can. Never drive through deep water. Cars will not provide reliable transport or make a safe island.
If you haven’t prepared for the next hurricane or nor’easter, think survival. Have on hand the following:
- Safe Water– If you must hunker down, your town or well water may become unsafe or simply stop pumping. Have a case of bottled water for each adult.
- Food – Cans of food from peas or peaches to soup and a manual can opener are a good idea. Raiding the fridge makes sense before anything spoils.
- Electricity– Our power grids are vulnerable to violent storms that topple poles or short transformers. Gas or kerosene generators make sense if you are likely to lose juice for more than 36 hours. A small unit can power key appliances such as your refrigerator, microwave, cellular phone, and some lights.
- Light - Easy-to-find matches, candles, hurricane globes or lamps, and flashlights are critical to avoiding stumbling at night.
- Heat – Chopped wood for your working fireplaces is obvious as are warm blankets and clothing.
- Radio – A battery-operated portable radio is essential to receive up-to-date emergency instructions. Extra batteries are also a must.
As an aside, take the time to check your insurance policies vis-a-vis Natural Disasters, Storms, Water, and Wind Damage. You may find there are very distinct limits on coverage of specifically-sourced damage, especially in coastal states.
Finally, make sure every member of your family knows where to find supplies and what to expect. Remember the Boy Scout motto: Be Prepared.
If anything does happen, we will be here to help you get back on track.