Hurricane season is a critical time for residents in Coastal Virginia to ensure their homes, families, and pets are ready for potential storms. With the onset of Hurricane Beryl marking the start of the season, now is the perfect time to begin your preparations. This guide offers expert advice, a detailed checklist, and vital information on what to do in the event of an evacuation.
Hurricane Preparedness From the Tree Experts
Nunnally’s Tree Care: How to Prep Your Trees for Hurricanes
As hurricanes approach, securing your trees is essential to prevent damage to your property. The expert arborists at Nunnally’s advise the following steps:
- Prune Dead or Weak Branches: Remove any limbs that could become projectiles in high winds.
- Anchor Young Trees: Use stakes to support young trees, ensuring they can withstand strong gusts.
- Inspect for Disease: Check for signs of disease that could weaken your trees and make them more susceptible to storm damage.
Generators: What the Experts Have to Say
Having a reliable generator can be a lifesaver during power outages. Experts recommend:
- Routine Maintenance: Ensure your generator is serviced regularly and ready to run.
- Stock Fuel and Oil: Have enough fuel and oil on hand for extended outages.
- Safe Operation: Always operate your generator outside and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
AARP: Advice for Older Adults
Older adults should take extra precautions when preparing for hurricanes. AARP suggests:
- Medication Supply: Have at least a two-week supply of medications. While a human can last quite a while without food, skipping even one day of a maintenance drug can be detrimental to your health.
- Medical Equipment: Ensure all medical devices have backup power or batteries.
- Evacuation Plan: Know the nearest shelter that can accommodate medical needs and have a plan for how to get there.
The Humane Society on Pet Safety
Pets are a part of the family and need to be included in your hurricane preparations. Don’t wait until you’re hunkering down or heading out the door to consider your pets. The Humane Society advises:
- Identification: Ensure pets have current ID tags and a recent photo in case you get separated.
- Pet Supplies: Pack a week’s supply of food, water, medications, and any other necessities.
- Sheltering Plans: Know which shelters accept pets or arrange for boarding in a safe location.
Things we all should know
HurricaneSafety.org recommends the following general tips:
- Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit with food, water, first aid supplies, and important documents.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with local weather reports and heed evacuation orders promptly.
- Secure Your Home: Board up windows and secure loose items in your yard to minimize damage.
The Musts: Essential Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
Water and Food
- Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days, minimum.
- Stock up on non-perishable food items like canned goods, dry cereal, and energy bars.
First Aid and Medications
- Have a comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and over-the-counter medications.
- Keep a two-week supply of prescription medications.
Tools and Supplies
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- A battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Multi-tool or utility knife
- Cash in small denominations
Sanitation and Personal Hygiene
- Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
- Toilet paper, personal hygiene items, and garbage bags
Clothing and Bedding
- Waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes
- Blankets or sleeping bags
Special Items for Infants, Elderly, and Pets
- Baby formula, diapers, extra clothing, and medications for infants
- Extra glasses, hearing aids, and batteries for the elderly
- Pet food, medications, and carriers for pets
In the Event of Evacuation
If evacuation becomes necessary, having a plan can save lives. Here’s what you need to know:
- Know Your Zone: Determine your evacuation zone ahead of time. Visit Virginia’s Know Your Zone for detailed information.
- Plan Your Route: Have multiple routes planned in case roads are blocked.
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts and inform family and friends of your plans.
- Grab-and-Go Bag: Pack a bag with essential items such as important documents, medications, and emergency supplies.
- Don’t Hunker Down: Sheltering in place when evacuation is warranted can lead to tragedy and avoidable loss of life. Hurricane Katrina claimed over 1,400 lives, and it is estimated that about two thirds of those lives were lost due to not evacuating. If the evacuation order comes, and you are able to do so, evacuate.
By taking these steps, staying informed, and evacuating when it is called for, you can protect yourself, your family, and your property during hurricane season.
Remember, the Atlantic Hurricane Season begins June 1st and lasts until November 30th. Start your preparations today to ensure you are ready for whatever the storms may bring. And reach out to us if you have any tree emergencies!
