These tips can keep you and your family safe
of ConsumerAffairs
Hurricane season officially began June 1 and weather forecasters expect this season to be especially active with as many as 25 named storms. A number of states, from Texas to Maine, could feel the impact.
People along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts have been urged to take precautions ahead of time. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody says people in the path of a hurricane or tropical storm are not only at risk of property damage but also scammers when its all over.
Experts are predicting a record-breaking and super-charged hurricane season, Moody said at a press conference kicking off hurricane season. Whether youre a lifelong Floridian or new to the Sunshine State, it is essential to get prepared early for potential hurricane strikes.
If you havent already, take dozens of photographs of every room in your home, plus the exterior, along with furnishings. In recent years insurance companies have been more difficult when it comes to settling claims, so having photographic proof might help.
A particularly strong storm would likely interrupt electricity and water supplies. Gas stations might not be able to dispense fuel until power is restored.
Your emergency supplies
Here are some items experts suggest having on hand:
-
Waterone gallon daily per personand non-perishable food for seven days
-
Non-electric can openers, paper plates and plastic utensils
-
Flashlights and extra batteries
-
First aid kits, sunscreen and bug spray
-
Battery-powered or hand-crank weather radios
Having information handy is also helpful. Print out the information since electricity and internet access may not be available in the immediate wake of a damaging storm. Here are some things disaster experts suggest collecting:
-
Printed evacuation routes and shelter locations
-
Stock up on enough food, water and emergency supplies for the entire household for at least seven days well before a storm is expected to strike
-
Check that storm-related products are hurricane-proof or impact-proof before purchasing
Leave grills and generators outside
Should you lose power, be very careful using portable generators, portable heaters, charcoal grills, and camping stoves. These items generate carbon monoxide (CO), a gas that kills more than 200 people each year.
Once the storm is over, be on the lookout for price gouging and report it to you state attorney generals office. Also, be very aware that scammers will try to exploit the disaster.
Beware of solicitors using high-pressure tactics, such as demanding urgent donations or sharing limited information when soliciting donations.
Finally, follow evacuation orders. If authorities tell you to leave your home and go to an area outside the storms path, youll ensure the safety of you and your family by doing so.
Photo Credit: Consumer Affairs News Department Images
Posted: 2024-06-20 10:51:39
