Tropical Storm Colin; Florida in the Bullseye
(Published on - 6/6/2016 2:53:37 PM)
Be Prepared Flagler!
Important hurricane websites:
www.flagleremergency.com (Shelter info, evacuation zones & special needs)
www.Weather.com
*Tropical Depressions are cyclones with winds of 38 mph.
Tropical Storms vary in wind speeds from 39-73 mph while Hurricanes have winds 74 mph and greater.
Typically the upper right quadrant of the storm (the center wrapping around the eye) is the most intense portion of the storm. The greatest threats are damaging winds, storm surge and flooding.
Keep an eye on formations in the Gulf or Atlantic, especially if you are participating in a home closing during Hurricane Season. As a named storm approaches, many companies will cease writing policies or adding coverages until the storm no longer is a threat. (The same holds true for adding damage coverage to cars and boats.) Homeowners insurance does not cover flood occurrences. Flood policies are available, inexpensive, and have a 30-day waiting period, unless required for a new loan. Call your Insurance Company today at for your flood quote.
Now is the perfect time to prepare your records for Hurricane Season. Take 15 minutes to go room by room through your home, to make a video inventory of your belongings - closets, walls, furniture, electronics, artwork, hobby/camera/gaming equipment. Don't forget the garage and attic. Some people get more detailed by panning through closets & drawers, plus kitchen storage areas. Don't forget to take photos of your car and home insurance declaration pages, especially that all important policy # and claims phone #, along with other important documents.
Securing Your Home
Know how to secure your home in the event of damaging winds, storm surge and flooding.
Cover all of your windows with hurricane shutters or wood.
Although tape can prevent glass from shattering everywhere, be warned that tape does not prevent the window from breaking.
Make sure all trees and shrubs are trimmed and clear out rain gutters.
Reinforce your garage doors. Bring in all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, decorations, and anything else that is not tied down. If winds become strong, stay away from windows and doors; close, secure and brace internal doors.
Power Outages:
In the event a storm should leave you without power, there are a few things to consider and help you be ready and stay safe outside of your normal hurricane preparedness.
Gas: Make sure your tank is full far in advance of an approaching storm. Most people wait until the last minute then rush to get extra gas for cars and generators; subsequently gas stations can run out early.
ATMS: Have extra cash on hand in the event ATMS in your area are not accessible or working.
Cell Phones: Charge your cell phone and limit use after power is out.
A/C: This can be the most uncomfortable side effect of losing power during a storm. Try to prevent as much light from entering and warming the house by covering up your windows on the inside. If you have back-up or battery operated fans, don't run them unless you are in the room. Fans create a difference in perceived temperature but do not cool the room; instead they create a cooling effect by dispersing the heat off your skin. It is said they can actually add heat to a room just by running.
Water: Fill bathtub and large containers with water for washing and flushing only.
Food: Turn your fridge temperature down and/or freeze any food or drinking water that can be frozen if you expect a power outage. Here is a guide on freezing food:
Have a cooler with ice packs prepared to cool your drinks and snacks after power has been out for more than 4 hours.
Remember, any severe storm can be deadly and destructive. If you've survived a hurricane, you know the inconvenience and distress it can cause. One of the best tips to be prepared are knowing the cycle of a hurricane - Approach, Arrival & Aftermath. Prepare ahead of time and listen to the directions of officials for the approach. Secure your home, or find a safe shelter for its arrival, and know how to proceed safely during the aftermath.
