Tips For Preparing For Hurricane Season

The summer season conjures up images of fun in the sun and relaxation, but sometimes Mother Nature has other ideas. Hurricanes are an unfortunate reality for those of us living along the Gulf Coast, and 2022 is predicted to be an active storm season. Even though hurricane season doesn’t officially begin until June 1st, there has already been a tropical disturbance reported in the Gulf near Florida. With this in mind, now is the perfect time to get you, your family, and your home prepped and ready for storm season. 

Create a Hurricane Kit 

When the storm warnings start, people flock to the stores and supplies can quickly dwindle. Rather than deal with the rush, prep your hurricane kit now so you’re stocked and ready to go. Here are some must-haves for your hurricane kit: 

• Candles or camping lanterns. 
• Matches or lighter. 
• Flashlights. 
• Extra batteries. 
• Battery-operated weather radio 
• Two-week supply of water (1 gallon of water per person, per day). 
• First aid kit. 
• Prescription medications. 
• Cash. 
• Blankets. 
• Toiletries. 
• Change of clothes. 
• Non-perishable foods. 

Prepare Your Home

When the storm seems imminent, it’s time to batten down the hatches and get the exterior and interior of your home ready to go. In addition to gathering your important documents and valuables and locking them in a safe deposit box, waterproof file cabinet or safe, you need to get your home storm-ready. Follow these home-prep tips: 

• Gather materials for emergency repairs such as plywood, plastic sheeting and tools such as a wrench and hammer. 
• Create a list of household goods in the event that your home sustains storm damage and you need to submit a claim through your insurance company. 
• Review your insurance policies and consider investing in flood insurance, as flood damage is not covered under homeowners insurance policies. 
• In the event of an evacuation, put your most valuable papers in a waterproof container that you can take with you. 
• Trim any branches or trees to prevent loose branches from falling on your home and causing damage. 
• Pack away or secure any loose yard art or decor outside so that you don’t have flying projectiles that cause damage. 
• Seal outside wall openings such as garden hose bibs, vents, and electrical outlets that can allow water inside the home. 
• Consider installing tempered glass windows and storm shutters. 

Prepare For Evacuation

Despite our best efforts, in some cases local officials give the order for evacuation. If an evacuation is called in your area  it’s important to know your plan ahead of time so that you can act quickly: 

• Be sure to include your pets in your evacuation plan. 
• Know where to find resources about evacuation orders and potential routes. The Houston-Galveston Area Council provides updates and resources including evacuation routes. The Texas Department Of Transportation (TxDot) also includes hurricane evacuation routes as well as other resources. 
• Whether planning to stay with a friend, family member or at a hotel, know the details of your destination, where it’s located, and make the arrangements ahead of time. 
• Map out your route and include possible backup routes in case roads are closed due to flooding or storm damage. 
• Type up or write down your plans ahead of time in the event that mobile service is suspended due to network issues. 
• Plan to take the necessities. Things like medications, pet supplies, a few changes of clothes, equipment for families with disabilities, baby items, precious photos and a computer are some things to consider as essential. 

When it comes to avoiding damage and danger during hurricane season, preparedness is key. Charge your family with trying the 10 minute evacuation challenge to ensure that you can be ready to go in moments in the event of an evacuation. 

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