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YourHub.com \\ Vero Beach \\ Stories \\ Hurricanes \\ Hurricane tips

Hurricane Season Starts June 1st!

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Contributed by: Etta LoPresti on 4/23/2009

Hurricane season is from June 1 through November 30. Preparedness is your best defense against injuries and property damage. There are some preparations you can start now to lessen the burden later, both to your stress level and wallet.

Some things to consider prior to the start of hurricane season:

Your Home.Take a walk around your home. Know in advance what loose items may become a hazard and need to be put inside or properly secured. Urge your neighbors to do the same. Trim trees and bushes that may pose a hazard to your windows or roof. Examine the condition of your shutters, making sure you have all the parts. If you are considering the purchase of shutters or plywood, do so early, while supplies are still available. Inspect your roof for loose tiles or shingles and debris.The main electric breaker, water valve and gas valve may need to be shut off. Know their locations. Take a home inventory - photographs are helpful when making claims. Confirm your insurance coverage; consider flood insurance.
Mobile Homes.Inspect your tie-downs for rust or breakage. Mandatory evacuation orders are issued to residents of mobile homes. Have a disaster plan. Know in advance your evacuation routes and locations of public shelters. It is best to stay with friends and relatives who reside in a safe area. Use public shelters as a last resort.
Pets.Consider your pets in your planning efforts. Many shelters do not accomodate pets. Most pet boarding facilities require pre-registration and proof of vaccinations. Make their appointments now. Make sure identification tags are current and attached to the pet's collar. Consider micro chipping for positive identification. If you don't own a carrier or portable kennel, consider purchasing one, especially if you live in an evacuation area.
Technology. In this age of high technology, many of us have important documents and photos stored on our computers. Back up your computer's hard drive. Make duplicate copies of your files and store them in two separate locations such as a safe box or home of a friend or relative. Find safe harbor for your data. The best solution would be an online data backup service (also known as remote backup or offsite backup). This will give you the protection you need all year around.
Special Needs.Do you know someone who requires more care and supervision than a general shelter can offer? If so, they may be eligible for their community's Special Needs shelter. Now is the time to pre-register. In Indian River County - call 772-567-2154 for information.
NOAA Weather Radio.Get a NOAA Weather Radio with a battery back up. It's your fastest and most accurate source for weather warnings and information. Radios can be purchased at many electronics, department and discount stores.
Family Disaster Planning.Create a family disaster plan. Talk about hurricanes with your family, especially any young children. Review and update your disaster supply kit. Start purchasing supplies early, a little at a time, to lessen the cost.

For additional information on disaster planning, contact your local emergency management office. In Indian River County call 772-567-2154 or visit our website at www.irces.com.

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