Weathering the Storm – Preparing Your Home and Family for Hurricane Season

By Sharon A. Bassett

Living in Central Florida means being well-acquainted with the potential risks of hurricane season. As nature’s fury can strike unexpectedly, it’s crucial to proactively prepare your home and family for such emergencies. By taking the necessary steps to fortify your residence and creating a comprehensive disaster plan, you can significantly minimize the impact of hurricanes on your loved ones and property. In this article, we will explore essential strategies and practical tips to help you navigate hurricane season with confidence and peace of mind.

Stay Informed
Knowledge is your first line of defense when it comes to preparing for hurricanes. Keep track of weather updates and alerts by monitoring reliable sources such as the National Weather Service or local news stations. Sign up for emergency notifications via text or email to receive timely updates. Familiarize yourself with the hurricane categories and the specific threats they pose. Understanding the potential risks will help you make informed decisions regarding evacuations and protective measures.

Create a Family Disaster Plan
Developing a family disaster plan is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in your household. Discuss evacuation routes and designate a meeting point in case family members get separated. Prepare an emergency kit containing essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medication, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Assign specific responsibilities to each family member, including tasks such as shutting off utilities or securing outdoor objects. Practice drills regularly to reinforce the plan and familiarize everyone with emergency procedures.

Protect Your Home
Preparing your home for a hurricane involves safeguarding both its exterior and interior. Trim trees and shrubs to minimize the risk of fallen branches or uprooted trees during high winds. Reinforce doors and windows with storm shutters or plywood, and install impact-resistant glass if possible. Clear gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage. Secure loose outdoor items or bring them indoors to prevent them from becoming projectiles. Consider investing in a generator to provide power during potential outages.

Stock Up on Supplies
Stocking up on essential supplies well before a hurricane strikes is crucial. Make sure you have enough non-perishable food, drinking water, and necessary medication to last several days. Have a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio to stay informed if the power goes out. Gather extra batteries, a first aid kit, hygiene products, and baby supplies if needed. It’s also wise to keep a sufficient supply of fuel for your vehicles and generators. Regularly check expiration dates on stored items and replace them as needed.

Central Florida residents must face the annual threat of hurricane season, but with proper preparation, you can mitigate the risks and protect your home and family. Stay informed about weather updates, create a family disaster plan, and fortify your home against potential damage. Stock up on essential supplies well in advance to avoid last-minute rushes. By implementing these proactive measures and making preparedness a priority, you can navigate hurricane season with confidence, knowing that you have taken significant steps to ensure the safety and security of your loved ones and property.

Contact Sharon Bassett at Premier Realty, INC for more information today!

Sharon A. Bassett is the Broker and Owner of Bassett Premier Realty, Inc. With an extensive background of schooling, from Pilot Aviation, 15 years of Construction and Design, Business Management,
Entrepreneurship, Over 25 years of Real Estate,
Owner/Broker.
https://www.bassettpremierrealty.com.

Sharon A. Bassett
Broker/Owner | GREEN, ABR, SFR,
RENE, MRP, SRES, HSE, GRI

352-602-0520
bassettpremierrealty.com