Preparing for the Worst - Part I
"Hurricane preparedness" is an expression often heard around southwest Florida. If you're new to our part of the country, it's part of our standard vocabulary. The reason for this is our hurricane season makes it necessary. The frequency with which we see tropical storms develop into hurricanes require that we maintain a state of readiness in the event of storms or severe weather.According to N.O.A.A., the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, effective disaster prevention should include :
- Developing a Family Plan
- Creating a Disaster Supply Kit
- Having a Place to Go
- Securing your Home
- Having a Pet Plan
Obviously, your family's Disaster Plan should be based upon your vulnerability to the various hurricane hazards. Having a written copy safely within your files is essential. It is something that may require being accessed on short notice. Sharing a copy with other family members or friends is also a good idea.
In the event of a storm that may require evacuation, having a place to go is a necessity. If you are asked to evacuate, you should do so without delay.
The basic idea behind a Disaster Plan is to make your family and home as safe as possible in the event of a storm.
The two most important aspects of an effective Disaster Plan are having a Disaster Supply Kit and, also, securing your home prior to the arrival of a storm. We'll talk more about these in our second part of this series.
