Living in Southwest Florida, which is prone to hurricanes, it’s essential to be prepared and take necessary safety measures for both homes and businesses. Here is a list of hurricane safety measures:

Before Hurricane Season

• Create an emergency plan: Develop a hurricane emergency plan for your family or employees. Determine evacuation routes, establish a communication plan, and identify a safe meeting place.
• Review insurance coverage: Ensure that your home or business is adequately insured for potential hurricane damage. Review your policies and understand the coverage, deductibles, and claims process.
• Prepare an emergency kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies, including non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, a first aid kit, important documents, cash, and medications. Keep the kit in a readily accessible location.
• Trim trees and secure outdoor items: Trim trees and shrubs to remove weak branches that could potentially fall during a storm. Secure or bring indoors any outdoor furniture, equipment, or loose objects that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Reinforce windows and doors: Install hurricane shutters or purchase plywood panels to protect windows and glass doors. Ensure that all entry points are secure and have proper locks.
• Backup important data: Back up important digital data and store it in a safe location or on cloud-based storage. Consider using surge protectors for electronic devices.

When a Hurricane Watch or Warning is Issued

1. Stay informed: Monitor the weather reports and heed warnings issued by local authorities. Stay tuned to radio, TV, or reliable weather apps for updates.
2. Secure your property: Install temporary measures like plywood or storm shutters to protect windows and doors. Bring outdoor objects indoors or secure them to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
3. Reinforce garage doors: If you have a garage, reinforce it with a bracing kit or secure it with additional support to prevent collapse during high winds.
4. Fuel and service vehicles: Fill up your vehicles with fuel in case of an evacuation order. Ensure they are in good working condition. Service generators and test them to ensure they are functional.
5. Evacuate if necessary: If authorities issue an evacuation order for your area, follow it promptly. Have a predetermined evacuation route and take your emergency kit with you.

During the Hurricane

1. Stay indoors: Seek shelter in an interior room on the lower level of your home or business, away from windows. Stay away from glass doors and windows.
2. Monitor updates: Continuously monitor weather updates and emergency alerts for any changes in the storm’s path or intensity.
3. Avoid using candles: Use flashlights or battery-powered lamps as an alternative to candles, as they pose a fire risk.

After the Hurricane:

1. Stay cautious: Even after the storm has passed, be cautious of hazards such as downed power lines, debris, and flooded areas. Avoid wading through floodwaters, as they may be contaminated.
2. Check for damage: Inspect your property for any signs of damage or hazards. If you detect gas leaks or electrical issues, evacuate immediately and contact the appropriate authorities.
3. Contact insurance providers: If your property has sustained damage, contact your insurance provider to initiate the claims process. Document the damage with photographs and make a detailed inventory of losses.

Remember, hurricane preparedness and safety should be a year-round effort. Stay informed, be prepared, and follow instructions from local authorities to ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and your business.