Florida is no stranger to unexpected weather, and Floridians are no strangers to hurricanes. While it storms year-round in the Sunshine State, the devastating power of a hurricane can far exceed the typical problems which accompany normal rainfall or wind. Hurricane season lasts from June 1st to November 30th and some years activity is minimal, but others can be catastrophic. In 2005, which includes costs caused by Hurricane Katrina, the total estimate of property damage came to over $13 billion.
Floridian homeowners, and vacation-homeowners, can take a few simple steps to protect their home and property, and no one should underestimate the importance of a few proactive measures. Taking a few effortless steps to prepare when there is no disaster might make all the difference in the event of one.
Six Easy Ways to Be Prepared
1) Keep boards or plywood which is sized to fit the windows of your house in an attic or shed space. Having these materials available well before any disaster strikes will prevent having to search for them at the last minute.
2) Keep rope, straps, and tie-downs for loose property. Be prepared to secure your boat, patio furniture, outdoor children's toys, pool accessories, etc.
3) Make an evacuation plan with the whole family. Discuss a meeting location, responsibilities for each person, an evacuation destination, as well as anything else which may be particular to your family situation.
4) Know if your home is in a flood plain. This information will be helpful for insurance purposes and to plan for evacuation, and can be found on the Southwest Florida Water Management District's "Floodplain Map Viewer".
5) Homeowners' insurance policies will protect your home in the event of damage from wind, rain, or debris. However, it is not the same as flood insurance and will not cover the cost of damages done to your home as a result of flooding. FEMA provides information and a list of resources on their National Flood Insurance Program or you can ask your insurance agent for further details.
6) Keep a stocked "Emergency Kit" on hand at home. You may consider stocking it with first-aid supplies, a battery-powered radio and spare batteries, a flashlight, bottled water, nonperishable food items, and a multi-purpose tool, as well as personal items such as medication and copies of documents. You may also want to include a waterproof disposable camera for documenting damage claims. This kit may prove invaluable in the event that you are not able to evacuate an impending situation. Get more details and ideas from the American Red Cross.
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