When moving to an area with hurricanes, there are several safety measures you can take to protect your family and your home. In the United States, hurricane season starts on June 1st and lasts through November 30th, with the peak season being from mid-August to mid-September. Therefore, for a large part of the year, you and your family members should be prepared for weather with heavy rainfall and high wind speeds. Here are the best tips for preparing for hurricane season and protecting your home from the elements.
Knowing the Proper Terminology
If you have never lived in an area affected by hurricanes, you may not be familiar with the terminology used to identify hurricane conditions. A tropical cyclone is classified as a tropical depression, tropical storm, or hurricane based on its maximum sustained wind speed. Hurricanes are categorized from one to five, with one being a minor hurricane and five being catastrophic.
Two terms you’ll need to distinguish between is a watch and a warning. A hurricane watch is a forecast of possible conditions to expect in your area. Hurricane warnings are issued when severe rainfall and wind are expected to occur in the following 36 hours.
Gathering Supplies
If you are ordered to shelter in place during a hurricane, you will need the proper supplies to sustain your household until the storm clears. You’ll want to stockpile drinking water and enough non-perishable food to feed you and your family members or guests for three to seven days. Other essential items include a first aid kit, flashlights, and important personal products like medications. You may also want to have books and games to keep yourself entertained during a power outage.
Create an Evacuation Plan
In severe hurricanes, authorities may order you and your family to evacuate your home. Before a hurricane, determine where you will be staying and the safest route to get there. O you have pets, make plans for transporting them and how to take care of them. Prior to evacuating, do what you can to protect your home from substantial damage, such as turning off your power, covering your windows, and securing your garage door.
Your first hurricane can be a scary experience. Whenever you move to your new community, ask your neighbors how previous hurricanes or floods have affected the area. That way, you’ll have a better grasp of how to prepare for another considerable storm. By taking necessary precautions and paying attention to incoming reports, you can make every effort to keep your family safe and feel better prepared for hurricane season.
