Hurricane preparedness tips brought to you by Paul Davis Restoration of Tampa – Paul Davis Restoration the one to call to clean up disaster damage.
WHAT SHOULD I DO BEFORE A STORM?
- Fill your car’s gas tank
- Charge your cell phone
- Take out extra cash and store it in a safe place
- Purchase flashlights and extra batteries
- Bring in anything that can be picked up by high winds. Including bicycles, lawn furniture, small plants.
- Close all windows, doors and hurricane shutters.
- If you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and doors with plywood.
- Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
- Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
- Talk with members of your household and create an evacuation plan. Planning and practicing your evacuation plan can minimize confusion and fear during a storm.
- Evacuate if advised by authorities. Be careful to avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.
- If you have a boat, secure it.
- Write down emergency phone numbers and keep them accessible (on the refrigerator or near every phone in your house). Also, program them into your cell phone.
- Locate the nearest shelter and different routes to get there from your home.
- If you have pets, pre-identify shelters, pet-friendly hotels, or out-of-town friends or relatives where you can take your pets in case of evacuation.
- Gather Emergency Supplies: canned food and bottled water
- Emergency medicine supply
- Important documents to have ready (medical records, wills, passports, identification)
- Trim weak branches and trees that could fall on your house.
- Seal outside wall openings (vents, outdoor electrical outlets, hose bibs, etc.) with high-quality urethane-based caulk to prevent water penetration.
Remember to stay informed, follow local community advice, and prioritize safety!
