Hurricane Preparedness Week is an annual event observed in the United States to raise awareness and encourage individuals and communities to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. It takes place in May, before the official start of the Atlantic hurricane season on June 1. During Hurricane Preparedness Week, people are encouraged to review their emergency plans, update their supplies, and learn about hurricane safety measures.
Atlantic Hurricane Season
The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season will run from June 1 to November 30, with 11 to 15 named storms expected to form in the Atlantic basin, including the entire Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Gulf of Mexico. In the U.S., The National Hurricane Center will begin issuing regular Tropical Weather Outlooks on May 15, two weeks before the start of the season.
According to forecasters, the 2023 hurricane activity will be about 80% of the average season from 1990 to 2020. Meaning there will be 20% less activity than the average of those seasons. However, a sluggish start to the hurricane season doesn’t mean it will stay slow. Accuweather meteorologists predict that Florida will be at risk for land-falling tropical systems during this year’s hurricane season.
Beyond the Basics: Best Hurricane Preparedness Techniques with OTM Restoration. Hurricane Ian destroyed homes in Florida residential area. Focusing on Hurricane preparedness is key to avoiding high costs after the storm has passed.
Hurricane Preparedness is Key to Minimizing Damages
Here are some essential steps you can take during Hurricane Preparedness Week. They help ensure you and your loved ones prepare for a potential hurricane:
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and stay updated on any potential tropical disturbances or hurricanes forming in your area. Pay attention to official announcements and follow instructions from local authorities.
- Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency plan for your household. Assign responsibilities to each family member, such as gathering necessary documents, packing essential supplies, or caring for pets. Discuss evacuation routes, establish a meeting point, and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
- Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies to sustain your family for at least three days. Some critical items to include are non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, cash, important documents, medications, and personal hygiene items.
- Secure Your Home: Assess your home’s vulnerability to hurricanes and take necessary precautions. Identify a safe room or area your family can shelter during the storm. Trim trees and shrubs around your property. Secure loose outdoor objects, reinforce windows and doors, and consider installing hurricane shutters or plywood to protect windows.
- Review Insurance Coverage: Check your insurance policies to ensure you have adequate coverage for potential storm damage. Understand the terms and conditions of your policy and consider additional coverage if necessary.
- Back-Up Important Data: Make digital copies of important documents like identification papers, insurance policies, and personal records. Store them securely in waterproof bags or upload them to cloud storage to ensure you can access them even if physical copies are damaged or lost.
- Prepare for Evacuation: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes in your area and follow any evacuation orders issued by local authorities. Prepare a “go bag” with essential items you’ll need if you have to evacuate quickly, including clothing, medications, important documents, and supplies for children or pets.
- Stay Connected: Keep a battery-powered or hand-cranked radio available to stay informed in case of power outages. Keep your cell phone charged, and consider having another power source. Have a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, utilities, and insurance companies.
- Help Others: Check on your neighbors or those needing assistance during a hurricane. Offer support and help them with their hurricane preparedness efforts.
Remember, hurricane preparedness is not limited to a single week. Maintaining your readiness throughout the hurricane season is vital by staying informed, updating your supplies, and reviewing your plans periodically.
OTM Restoration is ready to assist you with any hurricane, storm, wind, fire, or mold damage to your home or business. Contact OTM for a free quote today!
OTM Restoration can Help Before and After the Storm
Don’t wait if you suspect unseen water damage in your Florida home. Contact the seasoned hurricane preparedness experts at OTM Restoration without delay for a complimentary consultation. Our skilled Florida Restoration team, armed with state-of-the-art tools and expertise, will swiftly assess the extent of the damage and develop a strategic plan to restore your home to its original state.
With OTM Restoration by your side, you can trust that your home is in expert hands. Reach out to us right away and embark on the journey to reclaim your home and regain your peace of mind.
We have a dedicated team available 24/7, ready to respond to your residential or commercial water damage needs promptly and efficiently. For a free consultation and cost estimate, don’t hesitate to call 800-416-5986 now!
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