Hurricane Isaias prompts call for storm preparedness

7/31/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let the slow 2020 hurricane season to date keep you from being prepared at your business or residence.

With Hurricane Isaias moving toward Florida, it is a good time to check over your severe weather preparedness for the remainder of the hurricane season that begins June 1 and runs through November 30.

While it may be difficult to prepare for the unpredictable, there are steps you can take now to ensure you are ready when disaster strikes. One way to prepare your business for any type of disaster, is to establish an Emergency READY Profile (ERP). Contact SERVPRO of Gainesville West/Alachua County West to learn more about the ERP and how it can help you.

Consider the following tips when preparing for an approaching storm for both your business and even your home. 

Before the Storm

• Build an emergency supply kit and develop a communication plan.
• Unplug any electronic equipment before the storm arrives.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.               
• If you are outdoors, get inside a building, home, or hard top vehicle (not a convertible).
• Shutter windows and secure outside doors. If shutters are not available, close window blinds, shades, or curtains.

During the Storm

• Use your battery-operated NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.
• Avoid contact with corded phones. Cordless and cellular phones are safe to use.
• Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords.
• Unplug appliances and other electrical items, such as computers. Power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
• Avoid contact with plumbing. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Stay away from windows and doors.

After the Storm

• Never drive through a flooded roadway.
• Stay away from storm-damaged areas to keep from putting yourself at risk.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately.

Below is a recommended item for basic emergency supply list

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Food (non-perishable 3-day supply)
• Manual can opener
• Battery operated radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First Aid Kit
• Clothing
• Dust Masks or bandanas
• Plastic sheeting, tarps, garbage bags and duct tape
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Hygiene items
• Important documents; copies of insurance policies, identification, and bank account information
• Cash
• Fire extinguisher
• Matches in a waterproof container