By: Christopher Burton Homes
The sweltering days of summer are upon us here in sunny Florida. Life on the Space Coast is usually a striking mix of bright blue skies and coastal breezes. Long days of sunshine coupled with afternoon showers are the new regular. But the start of summer also kicks off hurricane season.
The time of year when paradise is threatened by severe weather. Hurricane season officially began on June 1 and runs until November 30. These six months of the year bring with them the threat of calamitous winds and destructive rains. While you cannot control Mother Nature you can be as prepared as possible for what she may bring.
Your Melbourne, Florida home builder is committed to helping you build the home of your dreams. We are also devoted to providing you with all the information you need to keep it that way no matter what storms may come.
First and foremost have a plan. Know what you and your family are going to do in the event of a hurricane. Awareness of evacuation routes and shelters, having the proper provisions, and storage for important documents before disaster strikes will hopefully take some of the guesswork and planning out of the event. Hurricanes are stressful enough without having to rush and put something together last minute.
Be sure that you are aware of your county’s evacuation routes. Should the need to evacuate arise you should know the best exit route for you and your family. You may not have the time (or power) to check last minute.
Brevard County Florida is divided into eight predetermined zones and each has a specific evacuation route. To find out what your zone’s preferred route is refer to the Brevard County website.
It also helps to know beforehand where you will be headed after evacuating. Detailed maps will point you in the right direction. Keeping an open line of communication with out of town family members or friends will assist you in this.
Should you find that you absolutely cannot leave there are 14 designated primary shelters. This information can be accessed through the county’s official website as well.
Now that you know how to get out or where to find appropriate shelter let’s discuss packing your hurricane preparedness kit. Experts recommend having at least 1 gallon of water for every member of your family for approximately 7 to 10 days.
You also need a supply of non-perishable food items (enough to last you at least 3 days), non-electric cooking tools, and any fuel you may need to run them, batteries, flashlights, extra blankets, toiletries, cash, medical kit, and a supply of any medications you or any family members take.
Don’t forget provisions you may need for pets during this time. Of course there are many more things you can have to assist you in case of severe weather but having these essentials is a great start.
Homes can be destroyed during hurricanes and if you keep important documents there you will need to take them with you should you choose to leave. If you are sentimental about photographs it may be a good idea to get duplicates made and keep them in a water safe container.
You may want to pack family heirlooms, jewelry, special mementos, and other items important to your family. Plastic storage bins are a good idea for transporting items that cannot tolerate water but remember; if you are leaving home space is key.
No one wants to face the possibility of losing everything because of hurricanes. However, being prepared helps ease the fear. Stay informed and know where to turn in case of dangerous weather. Links to helpful sites are listed below. Check them out and get prepared.
