Hurricane Safety Tips-Press Release

 

    Hurricanes are like no other storms on earth.  These ferocious weather systems bring torrential rain, floods, storm surges, and devastating winds that destroy homes and property.  By preparing for a hurricane before it hits, you can avoid becoming a victim of a disaster.  
 

     There are things you can do!  There are several steps the average homeowner can take around the home to prepare for the high winds and damaging rains a hurricane brings.  Sliding glass patio doors are especially vulnerable to wind damage; an easy way to protect your patio doors is to cover the entire door with shutters made of plywood.  You can also install impact-resistant shutters over windows.  Garage doors, because of their size, are highly susceptible to wind damage.  Garage doors more than eight feet wide are most vulnerable.
 

    Some additional things to consider are: check the gable end vents on your home, shutter and seal them to prevent wind-driven rain from entering the attic space.  Use silicone caulking around outside openings such as electrical outlets and locations where cables or pipes enter the wall.  Use duct tape to seal clothes dryer and kitchen vents, but remember to remove it after the storm passes.
 

   If your basement is prone to flooding and you have a sump pump installed, make sure it is working properly.  Move valuables in your basement to avoid water damage.
 

   Make an emergency kit that includes a 3-day supply of drinking water and food that doesn’t require refrigeration or cooking, a cell phone, first-aid supplies, a portable weather radio, some basic tools, a flashlight, work gloves, cooking equipment, portable lanterns, fresh batteries for cell phones, flashlights, or radios, clothing, blankets, baby items, prescription medications, extra car and house keys, eyeglasses, credit cards, cash, important documents including insurance policies.
 

   It makes sense to review your home insurance policy periodically to ensure that you have the coverage you need, should a natural disaster such as a hurricane occurs.  Report any damage to your insurance company as soon as possible, and without compromising your safety, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage.  
 

    Everyday items in your yard can become flying debris, such as outdoor furniture, trash cans, gas grills, children’s play equipment, toys, etc. Weak branches can fall and cause considerable damage to houses and vehicles.
 

   When a hurricane threatens, follow weather and news reports to stay informed about the danger you may be facing.  Listen for possible evacuation orders from authorities.  Be familiar with the evacuation procedures in place for your area.  Create a family plan, identifying escape routes from your home and neighborhood.  Designate a meeting place for your family to reunite if you are separated, and establish a contact point to communicate with concerned relatives.
 

   For more information about severe weather and fire safety, feel free to contact the Wareham Fire Department at (508) 295-2973.