As Hurricane Isaac rips through the Caribbean and heads toward the Gulf Coast it’s important that we remember that it is still hurricane season here in the Northeast. As such, we should be prepared and know what to do should a hurricane hit. There are a number of precautions that you can take now, to ensure that you and your family have the necessary plans and equipment in case of an emergency.
PLAN AHEAD
TheAmerican Red Cross recommends the following tips to be prepared. Make sure your family knows what to do before, during and after the hurricane strikes. Compile all the important contact information and resources you may need in the event of a disaster. Answer questions like: how will my family members get in touch with me during a disaster? Make a checklist of what needs to be done before the hurricane hits. Such as board up windows,put away lawn furniture, trash barrels, and other loose items in the yard, fill up bathtubs, etc.). Don’t forget to make note of what to do after the storm passes, like take pictures of damage, call insurance agent to report any claims, etc.
FIND A SAFE PLACE
If you are instructed by local authorities to seek shelter in a safe place, you,your family and your pets should immediately get indoors. Go to the center of the house in a room with the fewest windows and doors and be sure to bring your emergency kit with you. It’s important that you DO NOT call local police or fire stations (9-1-1) as these channels will be needed by the local authorities.
If you are instructed by authorities to evacuate, make sure you know where you are going, how you are going to get there and what supplies you need to take with you. If you are going to shelter in place, you will need to ensure your kit has enough supplies to take care of your family without basics like electricity or water.
BUILD a DISASTER EMERGENCY KIT
Assemble an emergency kit with household supplies such as: water, first aid supplies, and canned goods that your family may need. You should have at least a three day supply of food– non-perishable and easy to prepare items, and one gallon of water per person,per day. Your kit should also include a flashlight, battery-powered radio,first aid kit, cell phones with chargers, extra batteries, blankets, cash,camera (to take photos of potential damaged areas) and one week supply of medications. When building your kit, don’t forget the accessories like a manualcan-opener, utensils, sanitizer and bug spray.
STAY INFORMED
Stay up to date with public safety announcements and the latest weather conditions so you can track the storm’s path and know where to go in your community should you need to evacuate.
The time to think about hurricanes is before an unfortunate event occurs. Vargas & Vargas Insurance is committed to helping you find and your family. Questions about if your home is covered in the case of a hurricane? Call us today at 877-550-0025.
