HILTON HEAD, SC (LowCountryTimes) The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration notes what is often characterized as “Hurricane Season” begins on June 1 and ends on November 30. However, the NOAA also points out that hurricanes can, and have, occurred outside that time frame, an assertion that underscores the significance of hurricane preparation. Forecasters may be able to identify a period when hurricanes are likely to strike, which makes it worth anyone’s while to keep an eye on the weather forecast, particularly between June and November. Individuals also can take steps to prepare for hurricanes even if the forecast is all clear.
Identify an evacuation route and develop a plan should you need to evacuate. Certain regions are more likely than others to experience hurricanes, and such cities and towns typically have predetermined evacuation routes to ensure residents can get out of town safely if the need arises. Identify your local government’s evacuation route and ensure everyone in your household is familiar with it. If no such route has been identified by your local government, design your own evacuation plan and make sure it includes a safe and accessible route out of town. Include your destination in your evacuation plan. The NOAA notes that a destination need not be hundreds of miles away from a home. In fact, the well-built home of a nearby friend or relative built outside areas vulnerable to flooding can make for a safe place to ride out the storm.
Gather disaster supplies. The NOAA notes that disaster supplies are necessary whether individuals are evacuating or sheltering-in-place. Hurricanes have devastated many communities in recent years, and there’s no telling when hurricane-stricken communities may be up and running again. The NOAA recommends individuals have enough nonperishable food, water and medicine to last each person in the family at least three days. The NOAA also advises gathering enough water to last more than three days whenever possible. Electricity and water may be out of commission for a lengthy period of time after a hurricane, so keep cash on hand to pay for food and other necessities and stock up on batteries and battery-powered flashlights prior to hurricane season.
Speak with your insurance provider. The weeks or months prior to the start of hurricane season is a good time to contact your insurance provider to ensure you have adequate coverage should your home and/or possessions be damaged during a hurricane. The NOAA notes that homeowners and renter’s insurance policies do not cover flooding, which requires a separate policy. Providers may not even write flood insurance policies, while others may do so but at a very high cost. Confirm the details of your coverage prior to hurricane season so you can purchase any supplementary insurance if necessary.
Document your belongings. Document your possessions, taking photos of appliances and other big-ticket items. The NOAA recommends documenting serial numbers and other pertinent information that can make it easier to file a claim should your items be damaged during a hurricane.
Plan with loved ones. When making a hurricane preparation plan, share all details with family members and close friends. Identify a meeting place, ideally one that is accessible for everyone. Sharing details of the plan with loved ones increases the chances everyone safely evacuates together and ensures people know where to reach you in the aftermath of a storm. ¥ Safeguard your home. The NOAA recommends trimming trees, installing storm shutters, accordion shutters, and/or impact glass so a home can more capably withstand a hurricane. Seal outside wall openings so a home is less vulnerable to water damage. Hurricanes can be devastating storms. Some simple hurricane preparation strategies can help individuals withstand such storms and protect their homes.