It’s that time again! Hurricane season is upon us, are you prepared? Many of WMJ’s job sites and employees live in states that are well within range of a potential hurricane. Large storms affect not only the coast, but can travel hundreds of miles inland.
Researchers at North Carolina State University are predicting 13-16 named storms forming in the Atlantic basin this season. Of those, five to seven may grow strong enough to become hurricanes, with two to three storms becoming major hurricanes. What can you do to prepare for the worst?
First, make sure you receive emergency alerts for your area. This will give you vital information about storms that can affect where you live and work.
Determine Your Risk:
Based on where you live, you may be at risk for more than just rain and wind. Storm surges can move water many miles inland, causing tornados and inland flooding. Once you determine your risk, it’s time to create a plan.
Develop an Evacuation Plan:
The best way to prepare for a storm is to plan. If you live in an evacuation zone or if your home would be unsafe during a hurricane, plan to get out of harm’s way.
Identify a safe place to go; this could be to a relative or a friend that lives further inland. If you have pets, be sure to plan for their evacuation as well, as many shelters will not accept pets. Put your plan in writing and make sure your family knows what steps to take and how to reach one another if there is no cell service.
Disaster Supplies:
Before the weather gets bad, prepare a supply kit. Gather enough food and water for each person in your household for at least one week. Include prescriptions and medicine, as well as radios, batteries and phone chargers. Fill your vehicle with a full tank of gas in case you need to leave in a hurry. Here is a good disaster supply kit check list here.
Don’t Forget About Your Insurance:
Typically, flood insurance must be purchased separately from other forms of insurance. Check with your insurance agent to understand your coverage. In the event of an evacuation, be sure to take your insurance documents with you.
Staying Home? How to Prepare:
Many people will ride out storms in their homes. How can you prepare your home for a storm? Trim trees, shop for approved window coverings to protect against strong winds, find a safe location for your vehicle and secure all loose items outside of your home.
A little bit of preparation can go a long way when it comes to keeping you, your family and your co-worker’s safe. A strong plan can save not only time, but lives and property as well. Remember to account for any special needs you or your family may have. Write your plan down and review it together so that everyone knows what to do when disaster strikes.
