If you have lived in Florida your whole life or at least part of it, you know that hurricane season has begun. As for new Floridian residents, you may not know the drill when it comes to preparing for this wet, windy time of year known as the Atlantic Hurricane Season. Although, unlike earthquakes, hurricanes can be tracked early enough for safe evacuation, it’s imperative to be prepared for the worst. So, how should you prepare your family for hurricane season in Florida? Keep reading!
When Does the Season Begin and End?
Hurricane season starts on June 1st and goes until November 30th, with the peak of the season being from early August to the end of October.
Can Hurricanes Be Predicted?
Absolutely! When trying to predict how each year’s season may go, the NHC (National Hurricane Center) has the most up-to-date information on hurricane developments, forecast and weather alerts. http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
Safety First! Is Your Emergency Kit Properly Stocked?
According to the website StateOfFlorida.com your emergency kit should contain:
It is important to create a kit of supplies that you could take with you if you are forced to evacuate. This kit will also be useful if you are able to stay in your home, but are still affected by the storm, such as through the loss of power. One common trend seen when hurricanes are approaching is a widespread panic. When this happens, people rush in large numbers to get all the supplies they think they need. However, if you prepare your kit ahead of time, you can alleviate a lot of the potential stress of a very chaotic situation. You should put your kit in a bag that you can easily take with you. Some recommended items to include are:
- Non-perishable food (enough to last at least 3 days)
- Water (enough to last at least 3 days)
- First-aid kit (include any prescription medication you may need)
- Personal hygiene items and sanitation items
- Flashlights (have extra batteries on hand)
- Battery operated radio (again, have extra batteries)
- Waterproof container with cash and important documents
- Manual can opener
- Lighter or matches
- Books, magazines, games for recreation
- Special needs items: pet supplies and baby supplies if applicable
- Cooler and ice packs
- A plan for evacuation if family members are separated
Lastly, Prep Your Home:
StateOfFlorida.com advises that you do the following to secure your house:
Know how to secure your home in the event of damaging winds, storm surge and flooding.
- Cover all of your windows, either with hurricane shutters or wood.
- Although tape can prevent glass from shattering everywhere, be warned that tape does not prevent the window from breaking.
- If possible, secure straps or clips to securely fasten your roof to the structure of your home.
- Make sure all trees and shrubs are trimmed and clear rain gutters.
- Reinforce your garage doors.
- Bring inside all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, decorations, and anything else that is not tied down.
- If winds become strong, stay away from windows and doors and close, secure and brace internal doors.
Preparing for hurricane season is a tedious yet necessary process of living in Florida. Following these guidelines may help you and your family properly in an emergency and may be potentially lifesaving. Remember to always be aware of what is going on and to follow the advice of experts and the authorities — these people were trained to help you in those situations.
Hurricanes can also wreak havoc on your fence! Wood fences are greatly affected by strong winds. Torrential rains soaking wood can compromise the strength and integrity of your wood fence.
Fences and railings from BEST FENCE AND RAIL are made with aluminum and vinyl, some of the strongest materials for a sturdy and strong fence. Choose these materials before wood and when your wood fence is damaged from a hurricane or storm, call Best Fence first!
Best Fence hopes these tips are helpful for you and your family this Hurricane Season!
SOURCE: https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/hurricane-preparedness-guide/
(stateofflorida.com)
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Best Fence and Rail of Florida is Jacksonville’s industry leader in fabrication and installation of top-quality vinyl and aluminum fencing. At Best Fence, our mission is to fabricate and install the highest quality product at a competitive price, while providing unsurpassed Customer Service. Fencing is an investment in your home. Your decorative fence design choice adds value to your property in a beautiful way. We provide professional FREE estimates at your convenience. Call us today at 904-268-1638 or visit http://www.BestFenceJax.com