If you’ve watched the news, checked the internet, or opened up a newspaper recently, you’re familiar with the devastation that Hurricane Harvey has caused to the Houston area. The city is flooded, homes are destroyed, and families are faced with the incredibly daunting task of picking up the pieces and trying to rebuild their lives.
Unfortunately, there’s nothing that can be done about storms as severe as Harvey. We have no control over the weather, which means our only option is to prepare for the worst as best we can and make sure we follow any instructions or activation orders that the authorities might issue.
With September coming, there’s no better time to concentrate on hurricane preparedness. Historically, September is the most volatile month of hurricane season. Right now, Tropical Storm Irma is forming in the Atlantic. No one knows whether it will hit land or where, but it’s imperative that we do everything we can to make sure we’re ready if it becomes a threat to the Jacksonville area.
To make sure you’re ready for a storm, here are a few simple ways to prepare for a hurricane that might help minimize the damage in case of catastrophic weather.
Stay Alert
In this day and age, getting weather information is easier than it’s ever been. Make sure you stay on top of any potentially threatening weather developments, especially during hurricane season. Check weather sites on the internet frequently to make sure you know when a potential threat appears. Monitor local news sites to get specific information about forecasts, evacuations, and other preparedness measures.
Have a Plan
When a city as large as Jacksonville is forced to evacuate, it can quickly devolve into chaos. That’s why it’s important to have a plan before you need one. If a storm comes, know where you’re going to go ahead of time and plot out the best, safest route to get there. Knowing in advance what your goal is makes it easier to concentrate on everything else you’ll need to do in the event of a hurricane.
Build a Disaster Kit
If you’ve lived in Florida for any amount of time, you probably know what happens at the local stores whenever a hurricane threatens. Supplies go fast, and it can be extremely difficult to get everything you need at the last minute. Make sure you’re ready for anything by building a disaster kit ahead of time. If you’re unsure which items to include in your kit, follow this potentially life-saving guide.
Put Safety First
No one wants to lose their home or property in a storm. As real estate agents, we know better than anyone how much your home means to you. Ultimately, though, your safety and the safety of your family comes first. When in doubt, EVACUATE. Your house and your possessions can be replaced – your family can’t. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the most important people in your life.
By following these steps and doing your own research, you’ll put yourself in the best position to deal with a hurricane. Of course, if what is happening in Houston teaches us anything, it’s that sometimes no amount of planning is enough. When the worst happens, we’re forced to rely on the kindness of strangers to help us through the worst moments. That’s why it’s so important to do what you can for hurricane victims. If you can spare even a few dollars, the American Red Cross badly needs money and supplies to help those suffering in Houston right now. Visit the Red Cross site and lend a helping hand.