With Irma's path uncertain, it is wise to prepare and plan. Based on some questions I have been asked in the last few days, here are some ideas, in no specific order, on how to prepare at this point.
If the storm gets closer, I will update.
If the storm gets closer, I will update.
- Don't cut down trees, large branches, limbs, or do any major landscaping that would create a pile of debris that may not be picked up before the storm hits. If you are certain the piles will be picked up, put coconuts, limbs, branches out for pick up.
- Prepare to stay at home and be without electricity for a few days (up to a week) Think about what you will eat and how you will safely store it and cook it.
- Have water and food for one week.
- Fill your prescriptions.
- If you have babies, young children, elderly, medical needs, or any special needs, plan accordingly.
- Review your supply of flashlights, lanterns, batteries, propane, fuel, etc.
- Test your generator and review operating instructions.
- Decide what you will run from your generator and do a trial run NOW rather than when you need it and something does not work.
- Review the exterior of your home and decide what will need to come inside and what day you will do so. (Basically, EVERYTHING outside comes inside or up against the house/garage if the storm is coming at us)
- Make a plan for your pets to stay comfortable and inside.
- Fill your freezer. Don't leave any blank space.You can use crumpled newspaper, brown bags, or plastic containers filled with water (ice) to fill in the gaps.
- I like to cook several meals and then freeze them so we eat well with limited preparation.
- I also like to keep cereal and boxed milk on hand for quick snacks/meals.
- And comfort food...remember everyone's favorite chips, cookies, cereal, and treats. After all, hurricanes don't happen very often.
- Wash laundry all the way up until the storm hits. Go into the storm assuming you may not have electricity to wash clothes, towels, etc.
- Locate and review all of your insurance paperwork and important documents. Make sure they are accessible and in waterproof envelopes/ containers.
- Store all of your family photos, history, papers, etc. in large rubbermaid/plastic storage bins.
- Review your tools, supplies, and instructions for installing shutters. Decide when you will put them up and who will help you.
- Take photos of your house and yard. Go room by room. Include photos of electronics, antiques, jewelry, guns, furniture, etc. Include photos of your yard, the location of trees, furniture, etc. Back up these photos.
- Develop a plan for communicating with family and friends before, during, and after the storm.
- Fill your cars with gas (don't complain about lines or prices- our homes were not destroyed or flooded like Houston)
- Fill up gas cans for generator fuel.
- Have cash on hand for after the storm to pay for food/gas/ clean up help etc. Don't, however, be bullied by price gauging. Report it.
- Don't evacuate at the last minute unless it is mandatory. Evacuating at the last minute is more dangerous than staying in your home that you have prepared. You run the risk of getting stuck out on the roads in traffic jams with other cars who cannot find fuel and cannot get to a safe place in time before the storm hits. The routes out of South Florida are limited, making evacuation at the last minute a bad idea.
- If you know you will not stay in your home or apartment during a storm. Make your plan to leave early.
- I am not an expert. I have learned through experience, and from many others who have generously shared their experience over the years.
- When your preparations are complete...help your neighbors. We are all in this together!
Stay tuned for the next level of hurricane preparation recommendations. Irma is looking like it will require more attention.
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