Prepare Now: Hurricane Season Is Here!

With the arrival of summer, so too comes the annual hurricane season. For those residing in coastal areas like Gulf Shores, AL, preparation is key to weathering the storm safely. Here’s a guide on how to prepare for hurricanes and safeguard your loved ones and property.

1. Stay Informed: Keep track of weather updates and forecasts regularly. Subscribe to alerts from reputable sources and follow local news channels for the latest information on approaching storms.
2. Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive plan for your family that includes evacuation routes, designated meeting points, and contact information for emergency services. Practice drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency.
3. Stock Up on Supplies: Before hurricane season hits its peak, stock up on essential supplies such as non-perishable food items, water, batteries, flashlights, and first aid kits. Don’t forget to refill any necessary medications and have a supply of pet food if you have furry companions.
4. Secure Your Property: Reinforce your home against potential damage by securing windows and doors, trimming trees and shrubs, and securing outdoor furniture and equipment. Consider investing in storm shutters or plywood to protect windows from flying debris.
5. Review Insurance Coverage: Review your insurance policies, particularly your homeowner’s insurance, to ensure you have adequate coverage for hurricane-related damages. Consider purchasing flood insurance if you reside in a flood-prone area.
6. Prepare Your Vehicles: Keep your vehicles fueled and in good working condition. Store emergency supplies like blankets, water, and a first aid kit in your car in case you need to evacuate quickly.
7. Stay Connected: Charge your electronic devices and keep a portable charger handy. Have a designated communication plan in place with family and friends in case phone lines are down.
8. Secure Important Documents: Safeguard important documents such as identification, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof and fireproof container. Consider storing digital copies in a secure cloud storage service.
9. Stay Calm and Be Ready to Act: Stay calm and composed during a hurricane watch or warning. Follow instructions from local authorities and evacuate if necessary. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of caution.

By taking proactive steps to prepare for hurricanes now, you can minimize risks and ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe this hurricane season.

For more tips and updates on hurricane preparedness, visit the following websites.

https://www.bing.com/

https://www.aarp.org/home-family/your-home/info-2020/emergency-preparedness.html?cmp=KNC-DSO-COR-Core-DisasterPreparedness-NonBrand-Exact-40941-Bing-HOMFAM-EmergencyPreparedness-Exact-NonBrand&gclid=2137b474a3ee1f0f96d9d2156ddd02c6&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=2137b474a3ee1f0f96d9d2156ddd02c6&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Core-DisasterPreparedness-NonBrand-Exact&utm_term=hurricane%20preparedness%20checklist&utm_content=Emergency%20Preparedness

https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/noaa-predicts-above-normal-2024-atlantic-hurricane-season

https://www.noaa.gov/hurricane-prep

https://www.floridadisaster.org/planprepare/preparing-for-hurricane-season/