10 Things to do to Prepare for Hurricane Season
With the summer heating up, the dangers of hurricane season are on the horizon. Those who live in hurricane prone areas always have these torrential storms in the back of their mind, but many do not take steps to really be prepared for a potential storm. When it comes to hurricanes, it’s important to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
Unfortunately, we were in the aftermath of Harvey and witnessed horrific devastation. Thankfully, we were spared, but so many of our friends lost everything. I will be prepared this hurricane season.
And so can you.
Keep in mind the comfort and safety of your family is your number one priority, so you should be sure that hurricane preparation is at the top of your must-do list.
How to prepare for a Hurricane
Here are ten hurricane prep tips so that you’re ready for anything this storm season blows your way.
Create an Evacuation Plan
Having a solid plan for evacuation is important. Don’t wait until the last minute to figure out where you will go, what to do with your pets, and what routes are the safest in the event of a storm. Once the threats of a storm begin, you can quickly take steps to move to safety with a little less stress.
Make Plans for Sheltering in Place
If you’re in an area that it might be safe to ride out a storm, figure out a plan for what you will do if you do decide to stay in place. How far out from the storm will you fill up your gas tank? What will you need if travel isn’t possible for a few days? Are you ready for several days without power? Be sure you have the answers to all these questions, long before they become an issue.
Purchase a Generator
One of the hardest items to locate when the news of a possible hurricane begins to emerge is a generator
Invest in a Weather Radio
Weather radios
Consider Cooking Options
Having lots of non-perishables on hand is a necessity when doing hurricane preparation, but you should also consider alternate cooking options in case of extended power outages. Charcoal grills
Stock Up on Essential Supplies
Bottled water, non-perishable food (and tools to open cans and bottles), important medications, plenty of batteries and first aid
Prepare Plywood or Hurricane Shutters
Protecting the windows of your home during a hurricane is one of the tasks that is always on the to-do list in the days as a storm approaches. Save time by having the supplies already on hand and if needed, cut to fit your windows. You’ll also avoid issues of items not being in stock as others are scrambling to prepare, as well.
Stockpile Light and Power Sources
Pick up extra flashlights, batteries, and candles to be sure that you’ll have what you need in a power outage. Emergency chargers for cell phones and other electronics can also come in handy when you’re experiencing days without power.
Create an Entertainment Plan
Hit the dollar store and stock up on books and art supplies. Pick up a new board game or two and stash it away. You’ll want to have a plan for keeping everyone entertained through the storm, especially if you don’t have power. It will help keep anxiety to a minimum and serve as a distraction from what’s going on around you.
Stay on Top of Yard Work
By making sure that your yard is in good shape, trees are healthy, and dangerous limbs are removed, you’ll be protecting your home from damage when the wind blows through. Also, keeping ditches and drainage areas cleaned up and clear can help to reduce localized flooding issues.
Preparing for hurricane season is a very important responsibility. By thinking ahead, you’ll find yourself with less stress and frustration because you’ll have many of your most critical needs already in place.
So get busy and prepare for hurricane season. Do you have any other hurricane prep tips to add to the list?
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