Your Storm Preparation Checklist

Long Beach NY

07 September, 2021

9:16 AM

Description

We remain in the middle of hurricane season and predictions for this year are that more storms will make landfall in various parts of the country. These storms can cause significant damage from winds and floods. Just ask anyone who suffered through Henri and Ida. Not all the storms will make it to Long Island. However, we never can be too prepared to weather a hurricane or any storm, including a nor’easter, snowstorm or the severe thunderstorms that have passed overhead this summer. Here are some preparation tips that we at The Havasta-Whitmore Agency regularly provide to our clients. Of course, you can take additional precautions and we urge you to consider all options to protect yourself, your family and your property. Stay safe. Contact our firm at 516-431-3833 if we can help or if you wish us to review your specific insurance policies. Sheltering Make sure you have a sheltering in-place plan and a go-kit in case you must evacuate in a hurry. Know what your home can and cannot weather. Will electricity go out, forcing a sump pump not to work? Are you too close to water? Will that water produce wave surges and rising tide? Will flooded roads prevent evacuation if you delay? When you hear that a storm is close, fill up the gas tank. When you do evacuate, remain on the outlined evacuation routes. Go-Kits Put together a go-kit before you need to grab it as you evacuate. A personalized kit should include essentials to get you through a few days to at least a week away from home. Create go-kits for children and pets, too. Here are some suggestions. You will think of more items for your kits. Bottled water and non-perishable food. Water purification tablets. Cell phones and charges. Battery-powered flashlight. Basic first aid kit. Prescription drugs. Information on where those prescriptions are filled and the phone numbers of doctors who prescribe your medications. Include face masks and hand sanitizers (should be a regular travel buddy by now). Include several complete changes of clothes. Rainwear, sturdy shoes and gloves are needed, too. Personal items: extra eyeglasses, cash in small denominations, important documents (insurance contacts, wills, passports, certificates and a home inventory list). Gather information for emergency contacts who live away from the storm area. They can help you remain in touch with family and friends. A Pet Go-Kit Here are suggestions for cats, dogs, rabbits, lizards and birds. Include the pet’s name, its photo, your address and phone numbers. Include emergency contacts away from the storm. Include first aid kits and any medications. Don't forget a sturdy leash, collar or harness. A muzzle might be necessary if you occupy a shelter. Paper towels and plastic bags are needed for clean-ups. Don't forget food, bottled water and water purification tablets. A manual can opener is needed for canned food and bring small bowls for food and water. Don’t forget toys and other comfort items along with treats, brushes and combs. When The Hurricane Hits When a storm is imminent, stay away from windows and glass doors if you choose to remain in your home. If flooding appears imminent, turn off electrical power. But, do not wade through water that has entered the house to reach the main power source. Have battery-operated radios handy to listen for updates and emergency information. Do not exit the house unless it is dangerous to remain inside, or until you have been advised to evacuate by emergency personnel. Once The Storm Passes After a hurricane has passed, anticipate that you might still be in danger. Check your home for any major structural damage. Be aware of possible loose or downed electrical wires. Assume the wires are live and do not go near them. Do not use electrical outlets or appliances if they are wet. Do not drink faucet water until officials advise that the water is safe from contamination. If food defrosts when power is out, do not re-freeze. Cook it or toss it. Use these tips as a guide and personalize storm plans for every person and animal in the home.