FOOTLOOSE AND…
As we start to roll into the most active part of the hurricane season — and 2013 is slated to be a doozy — here are a hatful of tips and suggestions which can be most useful.
Remember, before the storm is the time to get ready!
Home survival kit: 7 to 10 day supply of water, cash in case banks or ATM machines are not available, medications, 7 to 10 day supply of non-perishable canned or packaged food, a portable radio, extra batteries, a manual can opener, flashlights for all, a fully charged cell phone, a good first aid kit and charcoal or filled propane tanks for the barbecue. Also, don’t forget soap, toothbrush, toilet paper, paper towels, etc, and also easy access to emergency tools such as pliers, screw driver and wrenches.
Other notable items: remove damaged and diseased tree branches… organize emergency supplies like canned food, drinking water, first aid supplies, etc… clear the yard and garden of loose objects like lawn furniture and trash cans… make sure the car has a full tank since many gas stations might not have electricity. Also, keep in mind that most Red Cross shelters do not permit pets inside and make other plans if you need to shelter your animals.
Don’t forget a list of key phone numbers, and if you own a boat, don’t forget to check your contract with the marina, since some point out once there is a hurricane watch issued, the responsibility for the boat is yours, not theirs.
Storm Categories, if statistics turn you on: Category 1, 74-95 mph (some to moderate damage ); Category 2, 96-110 mph (extensive damage); Category 3, 111-129 mph (devastating damage); Category 4, 130-156 mph (catastrophic damage); and Category 5, 157 mph or higher (catastrophic damage).
