Hurricane Preparedness

June 25, 2024

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th.  When a hurricane is predicted to make landfall near your location, it’s already too late to prepare.  Stores will be out of preparedness supplies, and grocery stores will likely have bare shelves.

Now is the time to prepare, to ensure you have the supplies necessary for preparation and any necessities for after the storm passes.  It is not uncommon for hard-hit areas to be without power for weeks after the hurricane passes.

Below is a list of basic steps to take before you are in the path of a storm:

  • Have an emergency plan in place
  • Know where you plan to meet if separated
  • Know where you plan to evacuate to in the event of a hurricane
  • Clean your gutters and drains semi-annually to ensure water can flow freely
  • Ensure your hurricane shutters are in good working condition
  • Ensure you have sufficient amounts of supplies on hand

 

Checklist of ways to prepare if a storm is heading your way:

  • Listen to local media, weather radio, or the Weather Channel to keep updated on storm events
  • Bring inside or secure any outdoor items the wind could blow away (outdoor furniture, bicycles, flower pots, etc.)
  • Close all windows and hurricane shutters (if you don’t have shutters, board the windows)
  • Turn refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting (except for those protecting stock that must be maintained within strict temperature range)
  • Unplug all unused appliances
  • Fill your vehicle’s gas tank
  • Fill your bathtub in case your water supply is disrupted
  • Have cash on hand
  • Refill prescription medications
  • Gather your important documents including insurance policies
  • Tell family and friends your evacuation plans
  • Refer to RedCross.org/Safe and Well or call 1-866-GETINFO for additional tips
  • If you cannot move expensive and irreplaceable items out of the potential flood area, consider moving them to the highest level available
  • Gather a three-day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and non-perishable, easy to prepare food items for yourself, infants, and pets
  • Flashlight, camera, battery-operated radio, and extra batteries
  • Rain gear and extra clothing
  • First aid kit, insect repellent, and sunscreen
  • Multi-purpose tool
  • Cell phone and chargers

 

Helpful links:

National Oceanic & Atmospheric Association: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/;

Weather Radio online: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/nwr/;

National Weather Service: http://www.weather.gov/;

Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/;

Preparation Information: https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes

 

Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Group is a nationally recognized leader providing insurance and risk management within industries including pharmacy, healthcare, and more. This information is intended to provide general  information only on certain risk management topics, and is not intended to provide any coverage determinations or coverage positions, nor is it to be construed as providing legal, medical, or professional advice of any form whatsoever. Learn more about how we help our members mitigate their risks.

 

In the event your property suffers wind damage, contact Pharmacists Mutual at 800.247.5930