Home Preparedness Checklist: Hurricane
When hurricane season is upon us, the anticipation mounts for days or weeks, and then it hits. Every year, millions of
people face this scenario and it's not a fun one. The time to prepare is now... so are you ready?
The following checklist is just a guide on what you can do around your home to keep you, your family and others that may come near your home, safe and sound. Please remember that even with proper preparations, if at any time you are asked to evacuate, you should do so without delay. That being said, here are a few tips to prepare you and your home for hurrican season:
General Preparedness
- Keep your vehicle gas tank above ½ full
- Portable Genset generator make sure you have enough fuel
- Test your genset / generator prior to storm
- Have a hand crank, battery backup radio with NOAA
Home Preparedness
- Board up windows and/or close storm shutters
- Keep trees and shrubs around your home trim and clear of debris
- Ensure downspouts and rain gutters are clear of debris
- Ensure all important documents, valuables and family heirlooms are in a safe dry place
- Secure all outside ornaments and basically anything not tied to the ground
- Turn off all propane tanks and gas mains
- Ensure you have a 72hr Emergency kit and supplies for you, your family and pets
- Ensure you have required prescription medication on hand for 7 days min
- Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water
This is a small list, not a comprehensive list. Each individual and/or familiy will have to tailor their Hurricane prep list based on their own needs and location. Don't forget to check with your local municipality. They often have guides, supplies and advise available for free to help you prepare your home and personally.
Be Prepared... Be Ready... Be Safe!
