Hurricane Preparedness: Be Ready

This Means You!

 

 

        Hurricane season 2024 is already upon us and though it has been relatively quiet so far, it is of vital importance that you prepare for the safety of yourselves and your property before the threat of a storm is forecast.

        Taking the time now to be in ‘ready mode’ will save you from rushing when a hurricane is on the way and being faced with shortages – especially on store shelves – when everyone else is stocking up on the same items.

 

Storm readiness

 

        Shawn Little, Director, Technical Property and Catastrophe at Definity recommends that you “strengthen any vulnerable areas around your home such as cracks in your foundation or leaky windows and ensure your sump pump is working properly. When a storm is forecasted, put any outdoor furniture and yard fixtures away and consider unplugging large appliances to prevent electrical issues during the storm.”

        In addition, you should:

·         Secure loose sports equipment and toys

·         Take down hanging décor

·         Move bird feeders to a secure area

        Little also says, “Make sure your yard is kept clean, dead tree branches have been cut and consider replacing gravel with mulch to reduce the risk of gravel flying when a storm rolls through.”

        Regular maintenance that will help protect your property during a hurricane is to make sure eavestrough and shutters are secure. Also, have your roof inspected annually for any loose tabs or places where more sealant is needed, such as around vents and chimneys.

 

Protect your business

 

        “There are steps business owners can take to help prepare if a hurricane is approaching the area”, says Trevor Wall, Field Vice President, Business Insurance at Travelers Canada. Follow these recommendations to keep your business safe:

·         Make sure signage and equipment outside your business are properly secured and anchored

·         Establish a system to protect windows and doors

·         Create an emergency response team so people know who will handle what tasks during preparation or cleanup and recovery

·         Assemble necessary supplies in a central location at your business that is protected from the storm

·         If you are in a flood-prone area, create a plan to protect your business from water intrusion

·         If you business has vehicles or mobile equipment, have a storage plan in place

·         Compile a list of vendors for easy access in case your business’ operations are disrupted

Both individuals and businesses should have a supply of plywood, if

you have a dry place where it can be stored. If a strong hurricane is forecast, covering windows with plywood will protect the glass from breaking and allowing water to get inside your home. If it is not used before the storm, it can be used to cover broken windows afterward to prevent further damage.

 

Review insurance policies

 

Little advises that, “at least once a year, review your home inventory

and home insurance policy. Your home inventory is a list of belongings that can help your insurer determine the value of your property and save you time.”

 

Hurricane specifics

 

        Hurricane threats are widespread and include prolonged heavy rainfall, powerful winds, storm surges, flooding, landslides, both inland and coastal damage and can even spawn tornadoes.

        Regularly check weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts on your phone.

        Educate yourself about weather information and terms such as the difference between watches (your area may be affected by a storm) and warnings (your area will experience a storm) and the parameters regarding storm categories. Most commonly, the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is used. Here is a general outline of the scale:

·         Category 1 – Winds 119 to 153 km/hr, minimal damage, unsecured roof shingles, siding and gutters may be dislodged, large branches of trees may snap and shallowly rooted trees may topple, expect power outages

·         Category 2 – Winds 154 to 177 km/hr, moderate damage, building could sustain major destruction, more trees will be uprooted, possibly blocking roads, prolonged power outages

·         Category 3 – Winds 178 to 208 km/hr, major extensive damage, properties may have removal of roof decking and gable ends, many more trees falling on buildings and roads, electricity and water could be unavailable for weeks

·         Category 4 – Winds 209 to 251 km/hr, major extreme damage, some buildings incur loss of roof structure and some exterior walls, with power poles down and severe flooding, the area could be uninhabitable for a lengthy period of time

·         Category 5 – Winds – 252 km/r or higher, major catastrophic damage, buildings totally destroyed with roof failure and collapsed walls, residential areas will be isolated due to downed trees, poles and power lines on roads, most of the area would have been evacuated and storm damage could take months to restore the area before residents can return

 

Emergency kits

 

Little advises that, “you should have an emergency kit stocked” and

ready at all times for any possibly damaging weather event.

        Your disaster supply tote(s) should be easily accessible and contain:

·         5 Days worth of water for each person/pet and the same in nonperishable food items

·         2 Weeks supply of all routinely used prescription and OTC medications

·         Hand-cranked or battery operated radio and flashlights (with spare batteries)

·         Solar charger or small generator (battery powered) for charging phones

·         First aid kit

·         ABC Fire Extinguisher

·         Manual can opener

·         Hand tools

·         Copies of important documents (For example, identification, insurance policies and credit card numbers, etc.)

·         Specialty items such as sanitary supplies, baby needs like formula and diapers and pet needs

There are various lists available online with differing items to include.

You may also order an already assembled emergency kit, but you will still need to include items applicable to your own situation.

        If you are on a well and septic system, fill the bathtub with water so you can flush the toilet if there is a power outage.

 

Comfort is an important component

 

        Preparing for the possibility of any forecasted damaging weather event  is more than just ensuring you and your property are safe, it is about being as comfortable as possible while you wait out the storm.

        Whether or not you have a family, adding a comfort tote along with your emergency supplies can help pass the time. Including books, board games, activity books, stickers and paper to make pictures and downloaded movies, shows and games on phones and tablets can not only make the time go faster but can distract young children who are likely to be frightened.

        Using this advice will make sure you are equipped whenever hazardous weather is forecast.