Hurricane season is upon us (June 1-November 30) and it is important to be prepared. Palm Harbor Homes are built to weather the storm, but any home can fall victim to a powerful hurricane. With the right preparation, you can be ready for anything Mother Nature throws at you. Below are a few simple tips on how to be prepared during hurricane season.
Find a Way Out
Study a map of where you live and determine at least two safe evacuation routes. During a large storm, many people will try to leave at the same time, leading to extensive traffic jams. Try to navigate one of your routes through smaller back roads. While the route may be a longer distance, you can bypass the inevitable gridlock and save valuable time.
Be Prepared to Stay
If you are unable to evacuate, you need to have adequate supplies to stay. Know the locations of official storm shelters and check all your emergency equipment
No matter what type of home you live in, it is important to take safety precautions during hurricane season.
such as flashlights, generators, and battery-powered radios. Buy at least one week’s worth of shelf-stable food (canned or dried) and water. Have a small amount of cash handy; when the power is out, grocery stores may open but cannot accept credit cards. Store lawn furniture, trashcans, or other light objects in a locked container so they do not become destructive during high winds.
Shelter Checklist
When a bad storm hits, you should gather the necessary supplies and a few personal items and head to a shelter near your home. This is a basic list of things you need to bring with you. Have an emergency bag packed with these items so all you need to do is grab it and go.
- First-aid kit
- Medications
- Baby supplies (food, diapers, wipes)
- Playing cards
- Headphones and battery-powered radio
- Toiletries
- Cellular phone (fully charged)
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Blankets
- Pillows
- Personal identification (such as drivers license)
- Cash, credit cards
- Important documents such as insurance policies
These items will prove invaluable during hurricane season. Sit down with your family prior to a storm and discuss your emergency plan so everyone knows what to do when a hurricane is on its way.
For more information about Palm Harbor Homes that can withstand hurricane force winds, contact us at 1-888-466-3718. We would be happy to assist you.
