How to prepare your home and family for hurricane season
There are moments in life when you have to drop everything for an unplanned dangerous occurrence. Hurricanes are one such occurrence. Plans are put on hold, supplies are hastily gathered and homes are prepped for the worst.
And according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), they are predicting an near-normal 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 - November 30.
I hope everyone stays safe this hurricane season but just in case a storm does directly affect you and your family, here are a few tips to get you ready before the storm arrives.
Fuel up
Go ahead and fill up your vehicles, it could be some time before pumps are operational again. If you cook with gas be sure and get a few propane tanks to continue to cook as needed. Kerosene is still a reliable old-fashioned option for lamp light in the evening if you want to conserve your batteries.
Gather water
People tend to rush to the store to buy bottled water, but it doesn't hurt to fill several containers with tap water for an extra supply before the storm.
Filling your tub with water gives you enough for flushing if you have a well and lose power to operate your well.
Another tip is to put a cup of water in the freezer. Once it is frozen add a coin to the top, this will help you know how thawed your freezer gets if you lose power. The deeper the coin the more likely you should throw everything out after the storm.
Get supplies
People always talk about buying batteries and canned food but forget other useful supplies. You can buy sandbags if needed and get a battery-operated radio in case of emergencies. I love to have a few games around to pass the time as well as a few books I have been trying to read. If flooding is an issue in your area you should have life jackets nearby. If you need some yard cleaning equipment consider buying them before the storm hits or else you might have to do without afterward.
Emergency plans
Know where the emergency shelters are and decide beforehand if that is an option for you. If you have a place to crash outside the danger zone consider taking an early trip before the storm hits.
Have some extra cash on hand. Back up your computer and waterproof all your essential documents. Make sure and grab them if you do leave your home. And communicate with your neighbors your game plan for whatever scenario happens.
Preparing your home
Grab some extra towels and place them around the door and window frames in your home to keep out extra water. Consider boarding up your windows.
If your home has any exterior drains make sure they have been cleaned and are clear of clogs. If you have time clean out your gutters.
If you do decide to stay home think of creative places to park your car to save them from trees but also have them accessible if you need to get away. If you do leave your home be sure and turn the water off and lock up.
Be safe this hurricane season
This may be a hodgepodge of advice and tips coming at you but hopefully, you gleaned a few nuggets and apply them. The more prepared you are the more options you have when things get dicey. Safety is the priority, having a plan now can help prevent regrets and stress.
