Many details go into preparing for hurricane season, and the 2022 hurricane season is no different. Some of the most important steps you should take before the hurricane makes landfall include:
- Planning for power outages and emergency evacuation for your family and pets
- Stocking up on non-perishable foods and water
- Gathering medications, first-aid essentials, and clothing items
- Securing your home against potential damages
Hurricanes generally move through the southeastern United States between June through November—this is “hurricane season.” However, for nearly a decade, initial hurricanes have begun forming as early as May. Make sure you have a hurricane preparedness plan for the 2022 season.
Before a Hurricane Makes Landfall
If you are hoping to be as prepared as possible for the 2022 hurricane season, there are a few things you need to do in advance. To start, you can subscribe to a hurricane alert service such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Once the storm hits, be sure to continue monitoring your local news channels and social media platforms for important updates on the storm’s path and progression.
You can also make notes of where local shelters and evacuation routes are in case your area is evacuated or you need to leave your home. Be sure to speak with your family about the steps they should take if you become separated at any point once the hurricane makes landfall.
Food Safety Preparedness
It is imperative to get your food preparation under control before a hurricane strikes. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) provides some helpful information on keeping the food in your fridge and freezer fresh for as long as possible during a power outage. For example, the HHS advises families to:
Fill containers with water and freeze to make additional ice
Purchase a food-grade thermometer to ensure
Food Items to Stock Up On for a Hurricane
If you are planning to shelter in place during a hurricane, make sure your food supply is large enough. Start with at least a few days’ worth of nutritional food to cover your entire family. This should include plenty of non-perishable food items like dried fruits, dehydrated foods, canned foods, and more.
Do not forget to purchase a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day. You may also want to consider buying:
- Disposable utensils
- A portable camping stove
- Other portable or disposable cooking items
These can help your family prepare food as easily and efficiently as possible while the power is out. Do not forget to avoid using any tap water for cooking or drinking purposes until you have confirmation that the water supply has not been contaminated in the storm.
Medical and Clothing Prep
Hurricane preparedness in 2022 also means getting your clothing and medical supplies ready. Make sure to pack blankets, socks, gloves, raincoats, long pants, and sweaters. The hurricane will likely produce cold winds and rain, so you will want to be prepared accordingly.
In addition, make sure to have all of your necessary medical supplies on hand if you are hoping to weather the storm. This includes items like prescription medications, feminine hygiene products, diapers and wipes, a first aid kit, and over-the-counter medications.
Don’t forget to check the expiration dates of any medicines and products in your home before the storm. That way, you can replace any that may have expired before the hurricane makes landfall.
Preparing Your Home for Hurricane Season in 2022
One of the most important things you need to do for hurricane season is to prepare your home. There are a number of steps you can take to adequately protect your property. Some of the most important home preparation steps include:
- Reinforcing or covering your windows with metal bars, plywood, or other materials
- Cleaning and trimming trees and removing any hard mulch from the yard
- Repairing or replacing your roof in advance to ensure it can handle heavy winds
- Removing or securing any items from your yard that could become dangerous, such as trash cans, tables, chairs, and toys
- Bracing all doors to your home accordingly
- Cleaning out your home’s drains and gutters before the storm hits
- Obtaining sandbags to keep around your home’s entry points, which will help keep rainwater out and minimize the risk of flooding
- Contacting your home security provider and requesting a diagnostic analysis
- Creating an inventory of your personal property and valuable items to submit to the insurance company
- Making digital copies of important documents and records in case the original copies are lost in the storm
These are only a few of the more common steps that you may need to take to prepare your home for hurricane season. You can also consider investing in environmental sensors so you can keep track of hurricane conditions.
If you have questions about what to do if your home sustains damage in a storm, do not hesitate to contact our office for guidance.
Contact a Hurricane Damage Lawyer in Florida
Dealing with the insurance company following a hurricane can be a hassle. However, when you have a strong legal advocate fighting for your right to financial recovery, you can go up against the insurance company with confidence.
Reach out to our team to hire a Florida hurricane damage lawyer. When you call the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine, you’ll receive a free, no-obligation consultation: 1-800-747-3733.
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