When the hurricane season approaches, the main question that people have is how big it will be. To answer the question, many people frequent the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website for news and forecast maps of the events. Whether it is a big or small storm, preparation is key to saving your and your family’s lives and property.
With temperature changes and rising sea level, storms’ strength has become unpredictable. Even though the intensity or path of these storms can change, you shouldn’t abandon your preparation plan until it is too late. In New Orleans, efficient flood control management services often design and build drainage to prevent floods in populated areas. When it comes to your community, make sure to prepare adequately for the possibility of flooding. Here are some of the things that you can do:
Understand what you are facing
Gather as much information as possible about the impending storm to know the intensity and expected day and time of landfall. There are many tools online that you can use to check this information and download a flood risk report. You can also watch the weather channel for updates such as the category rating and path of the storm. The channel will also show live pictures of the storm to help you know your risks. Remember that risks don’t just mean flooding at your home. It can also include damage or floods in essential places around you, such as hospitals and transport infrastructure.
Prevent damage to your home
If you live in an area that is prone to floods, you may want to purchase flood insurance. A typical homeowners’ insurance doesn’t cover flooding in most instances. Therefore, flood insurance can help get your life back to normal quickly after a storm. You can also raise your home to avoid damage to expensive systems and electrical systems. Another step that you can take is to move your valuable items to the upper levels of the house to prevent water from reaching them in case of floods.
Pack your essentials
Make sure that your vehicle is in good condition and the gas tank is full. Stock emergency supplies, food, and changing clothes. Carry with you portable furniture, a tent, a flashlight, cash, and first aid supplies. You should also bring along a radio to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions after every couple of minutes.
Preparing for a storm is only half the battle. You need to have a way of restoring your life to normal. The process can be dangerous, especially if you are dealing with a damaged building with downed power lines or gas leaks. Let your kids stay with relatives or other family members in a hotel while you assess the damage and prepare to deal with the aftermath.
A hurricane is one of the worst things that you can encounter in your lifetime. Its effects can be so significant that you won’t forget them for the rest of your life. Make sure to prepare adequately to minimize the impact on the lives of your loved ones as well as prevent damage to your property.