Hurricane Season Upon Us - Get Prepared in Orlando, FL
Hello, friends! As we bask in the glorious Orlando sunshine and relish our beautiful city, we must also remind ourselves that hurricane season is upon us. As a seasoned realtor based right here in Orlando, I know that hurricanes are a part of life in our part of the world. With some preparation and awareness, we can weather any storm that comes our way.
As homeowners and renters in Florida, we must stay ready and protect our homes, belongings, and families. So, what can you do to ensure you're well-prepared?
Understand Your Risk
Before we even think about what to buy or how to brace our homes, it's essential to understand the risk level. Your home's location, age, and condition all play a part in determining its susceptibility to hurricane damage.
Secure an Insurance Plan
Regardless if you own or rent, insurance is vital. Homeowners should ensure their policy covers hurricane damage, and renters should secure renters' insurance to protect their personal property. Remember to review your insurance policy, understand what is covered, and make sure it's up to date.
Storm-Proof Your Home
When a hurricane warning is issued, it's time to protect your home. Here are a few key steps:
- Install hurricane shutters or precut plywood for your windows and glass doors.
- Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts for proper drainage.
- Trim trees and shrubs around your home to prevent potential flying debris.
- Secure all doors, especially the garage door, which is usually the weakest point.
- Bring all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, and anything not tied inside your home or garage. They can become projectiles during the storm besides being blown away.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Create an emergency kit that includes enough supplies for at least five days. Many people say three days. I prefer to be prepared for ten days with food and water. Your kit should consist of water (1 gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, moist towelettes for sanitation, a wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, can openers for food, and local maps.
Plan Communication and Evacuation
In a hurricane, you should have a clear communication and evacuation plan. Make sure every member of your household understands where to go, how to get there, and how to stay in contact if you are separated. Identify safe spaces in your home, like a small, windowless room in the center of the house on the lowest floor. Also, identify evacuation routes and shelters in your area.
Prepare Your Car
Ensure your car is ready to go if you need to evacuate. Keep the gas tank full; stock it with emergency supplies and a change of clothes ready.
Get Tech Ready
Charge all essential electronics and consider buying portable chargers. Remember to check the batteries in your flashlights, radios, and any other equipment you may need.
These are just a few ways to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. I've seen firsthand the difference preparation can make for homeowners and renters during these storms. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry.
If you're considering relocating to Orlando, know that while hurricane season is a part of life here, it's one that we're well-equipped to handle. The community comes together to help each other, and systems are in place to keep everyone safe.
Our beautiful city has so much to offer, from its vibrant neighborhoods like Waterford Lakes to its dynamic food and arts scenes, not to mention its proximity to world-class attractions. And with a bit of preparation, you can enjoy all of this with peace of mind, knowing you're ready for whatever Mother Nature brings our way.
Stay safe, and remember, I'm here to help you with your real estate needs in any season!
Sources:
https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/2023-atlantic-hurricane-season-outlook
Somme2016.org. https://somme2016.org/advice/what-should-be-in-your-hurricane-supply-kit/
Daraskevich, J. (2017, September 6). Get Ready For Irma. Florida Times Union, A.1.
https://northbrunswicknj.gov/resource_library/family-to-go-bag/
- Tina M Christensen, REALTOR®, Winter Park, Orlando, Space Coast Florida
Connect with me on Instagram @tinamchristensenrealtor or visit my website for more information.