Most Floridians are aware that all it takes is one
storm to change your life and community. While we may not experience the
earthquakes that rock the West Coast or tornadoes that blow through the Midwest,
if you have lived in Florida your whole life or at least part of it, you know
hurricanes are nothing to sneeze at. Unlike these other storms, fortunately,
hurricanes can be tracked fairly early and easily making it much easier to take
safe evacuation measures. Most Floridians know the drill when it comes to preparing their heart and home for Atlantic Hurricane Season, which starts on June 1st. If, however, you
are a new Florida resident or don’t know the best course of action in preparing
for a hurricane, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
encourages you to take part in Hurricane Preparedness Week, May 15-21, 2016.
Hurricanes or tropical cyclones are among nature’s
most powerful and destructive phenomena. Living in Florida, prone to tropical
cyclones, you need to be prepared. Even areas that sit well away from the
coastline can be threatened by flooding and powerful winds. Hurricane
Preparedness Week is your time to best prepare for a tropical storm or
hurricane that makes landfall. You can learn how with these tips. Share them tips with your friends and family to ensure that they are
also prepared.
Step
1: Evaluate Your Risk & Insurance
Do you live on or near the water? Do you have proper
flood or property insurance? How about boat insurance? These are all things to
consider when preparing for Hurricane Season. It's better to have all of your
ducks in a row beforehand than to be surprised later on, when you find yourself
the victim of storm damage. Know your coverage and keep your documents in a water-tight bag.
Step
2: Know You Evacuation Routes
It's a good idea to map out an evacuation route
during this preparatory time. Know your roads and highways, then formulate an
alternate plan, should those roads become closed or inaccessible. You should
also make a note of any nearby shelters.
Step
3: Assemble Disaster Supplies
You are going to need supplies, if not for the
storm, for the potentially long and unpleasant aftermath. It’s important to
have enough non-perishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your
family a minimum of one week. You’ll need extra cash, a battery-powered radio
and flashlights. Most of us have cell phones, so you’ll also need a portable,
crank or solar-powered USB charger.
Step
4: Strengthen Your Home
If you intend to wait out the storm in your home,
make sure it is in good shape and up to par with your local hurricane building
code specifications. Have the proper plywood, steel or aluminum panels to board
up the windows and doors. If you have a garage door, it is the most vulnerable
part of the home. Properly board up and secure the garage door so it can
withstand the winds.
If you were thinking of installing a fence, your
best bet is an aluminum or vinyl fence from Best Fence Company of Jacksonville.
Traditional wooden fences are highly susceptible to wind damage, falling down,
losing panels or even becoming dangerous projectiles. Most aluminum and vinyl
fencing is much more durable than wooden fencing, having passed high speed wind
testing and a 3000 hour saltwater spray test.
Further
Information
More information on hurricanes and hurricane
preparedness can be found at www.NOAA.gov or by contacting your local weather
service or county officials.
Best
Fence Company is Jacksonville’s
industry leader in fabrication and installment of top quality vinyl and
aluminum fencing and ornamental garden products. At Best Fence, our mission is
to fabricate and install the highest quality product at a competitive price
while providing unsurpassed Customer Service. Fencing is an investment in your
home. Your decorative fence design choice adds value to your property in a
beautiful way. Your family will feel protected and you'll breathe easier
knowing Best Fence installed your new fence. We provide professional FREE
estimates at your convenience, call us today.
