Houston is no stranger to hurricanes, and being prepared can make all the difference in ensuring your safety and minimizing damage to your property. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to prepare for a hurricane in Houston, incorporating essential tips from Nan Properties:
1. Create an Emergency Plan
- Family Communication Plan: Ensure all family members know how to contact each other and where to meet in case of evacuation.
- Evacuation Routes: Identify multiple evacuation routes from your home to a safe location. Keep a map handy in case GPS services are unavailable.
- Designate Safe Rooms: Identify the safest rooms in your home to shelter during the hurricane, typically interior rooms on the lowest floor without windows.
2. Build an Emergency Kit
- Water and Food: Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, and non-perishable food items.
- Medications: Keep a supply of essential medications, both prescription and over-the-counter.
- First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, scissors, tweezers, and other basic medical supplies.
- Flashlights and Batteries: Ensure you have plenty of batteries and at least one flashlight per person.
- Important Documents: Store important documents in a waterproof container, including insurance policies, identification, and bank records.
3. Prepare Your Home
- Secure Windows and Doors: Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood. Ensure doors are secure and reinforced.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to prevent branches from breaking and causing damage.
- Clear Gutters and Drains: Ensure gutters and drains are clear of debris to prevent water accumulation and damage.
- Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, and garbage cans. Anything that can be picked up by the wind should be secured.
4. Stay Informed
- Monitor Weather Updates: Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to stay updated on weather alerts and instructions from local authorities.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to local emergency alerts and notifications to receive real-time updates.
5. Plan for Power Outages
- Backup Power Source: Consider investing in a generator. Make sure you know how to operate it safely.
- Charge Electronics: Ensure all mobile phones, laptops, and other electronics are fully charged before the storm hits.
- Alternative Light Sources: Have candles, lanterns, and matches or lighters on hand.
6. Evacuate if Necessary
- Heed Warnings: If local authorities issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. Do not wait until the last minute.
- Pack Essentials: Pack your emergency kit, important documents, and personal items quickly and efficiently.
- Pet Safety: Don’t forget to make arrangements for pets. Bring them with you if you evacuate and have pet supplies ready.
7. Post-Hurricane Safety
- Wait for All-Clear: Do not return home until local authorities declare it safe.
- Avoid Floodwaters: Stay away from floodwaters, as they may be contaminated or electrically charged.
- Inspect Your Home: Check for structural damage, gas leaks, and other hazards before re-entering your home.
Additional Tips:
- Review Insurance Coverage: Ensure your homeowner’s insurance covers hurricane damage. Consider additional flood insurance if necessary. Check here: nanproperties.com/nan-insurance
- Document Your Home: Take photos and videos of your home’s interior and exterior. This can be invaluable for insurance claims.
- Stockpile Supplies Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to gather supplies. Stock up on essentials well in advance of hurricane season.
- Protect Important Documents: Keep important documents, like passports, birth certificates, and insurance policies, in a safe and easily accessible place.