TOMS RIVER, NJ – As summer winds down and the winds begin to pick up and the weather changes in New Jersey in September, it becomes increasingly evident that hurricane season is upon us. For some, hurricanes are a distant news headline, but for many especially those who vividly remember Superstorm Sandy, they are a seasonal reality that demands serious preparation.
Here are some proactive measures you can take to prepare for hurricane season ahead of time.
Stock Up on Emergency Supplies
The first thing to do is gather your essentials. This includes non-perishable food, bottled water, flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies. It’s best to have enough provisions to last for at least 72 hours. Additionally, keep important documents like IDs, insurance papers, and medical records in a safe, waterproof location.
Develop an Emergency Plan
An emergency plan is crucial, especially if you have a family. Make sure every member knows the plan and has practiced it. The plan should include how to evacuate your home safely, where to go, and how to communicate with other family members if separated. Also, establish a designated emergency meeting point.
Stay Informed
Being well-informed can make a significant difference in your safety during a hurricane. Keep yourself updated with weather reports and follow instructions from local authorities. Invest in a battery-operated weather radio to ensure you can still receive updates even if you lose power.
Secure Your Home
Make your home as hurricane-proof as possible. This can include installing storm shutters or boarding up windows, reinforcing your garage doors, and even retrofitting your roof. Also, clear your yard of anything that could become a projectile in strong winds, like patio furniture and loose branches.
Consider Your Pets
Don’t forget about your furry friends when preparing for hurricane season. Stock up on pet food and ensure that you have a secure carrier for each animal. Check ahead to see if emergency shelters will accept pets and, if not, make alternative arrangements.
Know Your Evacuation Routes
Before a storm hits, familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes. Knowing the quickest way to a safe location can save valuable time during an emergency. Keep a map in your emergency kit in case GPS is not available.
Assess Your Insurance Coverage
Take the time to review your insurance policies to ensure you have adequate coverage for your home and possessions. Remember, standard homeowner’s insurance does not typically cover flooding, so you may need to purchase additional coverage.
Revisit Your Plan Regularly
Make it a habit to review and update your emergency plan and supplies every year. This will help ensure you’re always prepared, and you can make adjustments based on new risks or changes in your household.
Get Involved in Community Preparedness
Lastly, you can contribute to community safety by volunteering with local disaster preparedness organizations. Being prepared as a community can make all the difference when a hurricane hits.
Taking the time to prepare for hurricane season can help reduce stress and enable you to take quick action when needed. Start planning now to ensure you and your family are ready when the next storm rolls in.