Creating An Emergency Hurricane Plan

When a hurricane strikes, you’ll want to ensure the safety of yourself as well as those who live with you. Planning ahead and creating an emergency hurricane plan before a hurricane can save you a lot of struggle and from a potentially dangerous situation. 

Hurricane season should always make you review your current strategy or plans for dealing with a hurricane. A situation where you are without power and potentially have a flooded home can cause significant issues. At United Water Restoration Group, we wanted to go over a few key important steps to place in your emergency plan that will assist or help ensure your safety during a strong storm or hurricane. 

Planning & Creating An Emergency Hurricane Plan

Creating an emergency hurricane plan can help save you time or even your life. The items listed below can drastically assist you during times of emergency. During the 2022 hurricane season the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is expecting an above-average hurricane season. Creating an emergency hurricane plan is as important as ever.

Create An Emergency Contact List

Create an emergency contact list that you can easily grab and take with you if you have to evacuate. This should include important numbers such as police, your insurance company, family members, and potentially neighbors. This is one of the most important parts of an emergency hurricane plan.

Know Your Route

If you live in an evacuation zone, know your route and where you will be staying. If possible, make reservations ahead of time or have a list of potential places you can stay. Keep in mind that hotels will fill up quickly so it’s best to have a plan B and even a plan C. This part of your emergency hurricane plan can help you know the safest routes during a time of emergency. 

Emergency Kit

Pack an emergency kit for each member of your family. Include items such as clothes, non-perishable food items, water, first-aid kit, prescriptions, phone chargers, cash, and first aid items just in case. No emergency hurricane plan is complete without an emergency kit, you can purchase kits complete or build one yourself. 

Pets

If you have pets, make sure to include them in your emergency plan. Have a list of pet-friendly hotels or shelters in case you need to evacuate. Pack enough food and water for them as well as a leash, collar, and any other items they may need.

Prepare Your Home

If you plan on staying home during the hurricane, there are some things you can do to prepare your home. Trim trees and shrubs around your property, remove loose items from your yard, and secure any outdoor furniture. Hurricane shutters will also help protect your windows from flying debris. If you don’t have hurricane shutters, consider placing plywood on the inside of your windows for extra protection.

Make sure your gutters are clear and your downspouts are directing water away from your foundation. Check for any cracks or damage to your foundation and repair them if necessary. If you have a generator, make sure it is in good working condition and that you know how to operate it safely. Stock up on fuel so you can keep it running if the power goes out.

Keep Up To Date

You should always try to keep as up to date as possible regarding the current situation. Monitor weather stations frequently or local news channels to see if there are any new updates to the situation. 

If a hurricane is headed your way, it is important that you take the necessary steps to protect yourself and your property.

 

Heed All Warnings

If officials say that you need to evacuate, do so as soon as possible. Do not try to ride out the storm in your home if it is not safe to do so. Remember, your safety is more important than your possessions.

Planning ahead can help you stay safe during a hurricane. By having a plan and being prepared, you can minimize the impact of a hurricane on you and your family. At United Water Restoration Group, we provide water damage restoration services and can help return your property back to its pre-loss conditions. 

If you have recently experienced a hurricane and your property has sustained damage, our technicians can assist. Contact our service line at (800) 430-5838 for assistance.