Hurricane Beryl Aftermath: Preparing for the Future
Hurricane Beryl Aftermath: Preparing for the Future
The impact of Hurricane Beryl revealed a landscape marked by its fury. While some were fortunate enough to emerge unscathed, others faced significant hardships.
The aftermath provides an invaluable opportunity to reflect on our preparedness and to take concrete steps to ensure better readiness for the next potential disaster. It is also important to remember that while we can prepare as much as possible, Mother Nature's power can sometimes surpass even the best-laid plans. Therefore, emphasizing safety and comprehensive preparation remains essential.
Steps for Future Preparedness:
1. Check your insurance coverage
Before you take any practical steps toward protecting your home and property from impending storms, review your homeowner's insurance policy. Verify that damage from flooding and strong winds is adequately covered. If your policy seems insufficient, consider upgrading to a plan that will provide more extensive coverage.
2. Protect your property against flooding
Spend time cleaning out your gutters and downspouts as you want them to be in optimal working order. During the next rainfall, do a quick scout of your external drains and pipes, checking that they're working effectively and that there are no areas where water gathers. If you spot a problem, note what needs to be fixed and tackle the job as quickly as you can after the rain. An easy fix-up today can save you thousands of dollars in water damage tomorrow.
3. Inspect your property's structure
Conduct a thorough inspection of your property. You'll want to ensure there are no structural issues that a hurricane's strong winds and waters may worsen. Shaky roofs, loose shingles, and weakened external walls can all give storm winds entry to your home, where they can cause substantial damage.
Check your windows, seal up leaks, and ensure the latches are secure. If strong storms usually hit your area, consider boarding up your windows in case of a hurricane, especially those facing the direction of the fiercest expected winds. You can do the same for your external doors.
4. Review your evacuation route
Weather reports usually arrive with sufficient time to evacuate your hometown should it become necessary. However, it's always a good idea to plan an evacuation route in advance and make plans for where you'd stay in case of a storm. Ensure you have clear directions for your destination.
5. Stock up!
Prepare your storm stock now instead of waiting to hit the stores when a hurricane is on the way, and the shelves are emptying faster than you can select your items. Designate an area in your garage or basement for storm supplies and keep it stocked with bottled water, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable food items, such as canned goods and condensed milk. FEMA recommends stocking one gallon of water per person for three days and nine non-perishable meals per person.
It's also a good idea to purchase a crank-powered or battery-operated radio so you aren't cut off from the outside world. You can find one with a cellphone charging port, which is handy in case of a power outage.
This way, when a storm is approaching, you can concentrate on preparing your property without worrying about stocking up on food and drinks.
6. Take last-minute precautions
You may have prepared for hurricanes and taken every necessary precaution, but it's wise to do another check on your property when a hurricane warning or watch is in effect. Here are some last-minute measures you can take in the days before a storm is set to hit your area:
- Walk through your external property, checking for scattered debris and loose-hanging branches. Remove any loose items you find, as they can turn into projectiles during a storm and cause extensive damage to your home and property.
- Patch any visible foundation cracks around your home.
- If your home has a sump pump, clear any debris and ensure it's operating properly to prevent clogging.
- Double-check to ensure your gutters are completely cleared.
- Consider sealing and boarding your windows and doors.
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