3 Tips For Preparing For A Hurricane
If you have recently moved to an area that experiences hurricanes, it is important to know how to get prepared. Emergency preparation for all natural disasters has something in common, but there are several unique things that you should do to be ready in the event of a hurricane. Use the following tips to learn how to protect your home and keep your family safe and comfortable if a hurricane hits your area:
Install Storm Shutters
High winds and flying debris make the windows in your home very vulnerable during a hurricane. Some people choose to board their windows with plywood when a hurricane is coming, but this can take considerable time and effort, and the plywood typically is not as strong as the material used to make storm shutters that are designed to withstand the force of a hurricane. No one wants the exterior of their home to look ugly year round, which is why hurricane storm shutters come in a variety of colors and styles to match the architecture of your home. Once properly installed, hurricane shutters can protect your home for years.
Purchase a Generator
If a very severe hurricane hits your area, it can do a lot of damage to power lines and the electrical grid. Utility companies work hard to make repairs after the storm has passed, but depending on the circumstances it can be days, or even weeks, before power is restored to your home. Most people are eager to return to their home after a hurricane if they had to evacuate, but living without electricity for an extended period of time can be very uncomfortable, especially if it is hot. If you have a generator from a company like Childers Enterprises Inc you will have a source of power to keep your refrigerator and freezer cold so your food doesn't spoil, as well as a way to charge electronic devices, such as cell phones and tablets. Depending on the amount of fuel you have, you may also elect to air condition a room in your house to escape the heat. When you get a generator, make sure you also buy an ample amount of fuel-- it can be very hard to buy fuel immediately before and after a hurricane.
Have Emergency Supplies Packed and Ready
Luckily, today's weather forecasting can track hurricanes so residents have an idea of their path and where they are likely to make landfall, but it is not a good idea to wait until a hurricane is coming to gather emergency supplies. Stores are busy and shelves are often empty in advance of a storm-- you can makes things easier for yourself by packing a bag of emergency supplies at the beginning of hurricane season so you are ready to evacuate when needed.