Hurricane Guide: How To Prepare For The Season
The Atlantic hurricane Season begins on June 1st and runs until November 30th this year. This lengthy season makes being prepared extremely important for the safety of you, your loved ones, your home & more.
We have gathered valuable information to help answer questions and suggest products that may be useful for Hurricane preparedness.
- Have an established emergency plan for your household
- Creating an emergency kit
- Secure your property to minimize injury and damage
Making A Plan:
Having an emergency plan is the first step in preparedness. Your plan should include essential information that everyone in the household can access:
- Fire extinguisher locations
- An evacuation meeting place
- Utility shut-off points
- A plan for evacuating pets and pet detail decals for emergency services
- Emergency contacts (names and phone numbers)
- List of required medications and health conditions/allergies
- Names, ages, and contact numbers of people in the household
- The location of your household emergency kit
Building An Emergency Kit:
Putting together a well-stocked emergency kit is vital. Include items like:
- Water (1L a day per person for a minimum of 3 days; plan for more to include pets)
- Non-perishable food (canned goods, peanut butter, dry cereal, granola bars, dried meat/fruit)
- A manual can opener
- A first-aid kit
- Lighter
- Wood or Pellets for existing stove to cook and stay warm
- A flashlight
- Batteries
- Pet food and medications
- A crank or battery-operated radio
- Cash
- Important documents (birth certificates, passports, insurance, wills, health cards); it is also recommended you make electronic copies of these documents
- Infant formula and care supplies
- A copy of your emergency plan
- Ensure your kit can sustain your household for at least three days. Remember to check expiry dates, replace necessary items and update it annually.
Protecting and Securing Your Home:
Preparing your home and property for hurricanes can help prevent injury and minimize costly damage. Here are some suggestions to help you get started:
Inspect your roof yearly before the start of hurricane season to ensure it is in good condition
- Remove any hazardous trees or branches on your property that could cause damage if they come down during a storm
- Clear drains, gutters and downspouts so they are free of debris
- Secure outdoor items such as barbecues, patio furniture, planters, picnic tables and garbage cans
- Consider boarding up windows with plywood if necessary
- Understand what your current home or renter insurance policy covers
Additional Products and Supplies to consider:
These items can further enhance your preparedness and help you stay self-sufficient during emergencies.
Being proactive and thorough in your hurricane preparedness efforts can make a significant difference in how you and your household weather a storm. Stay safe, stay informed, and be ready for whatever the Atlantic hurricane season may bring your way.