The Season has Begun
As we all try to newly adjust once again our daily routines with our kids officially home on summer break, I wanted to come in and take a moment to talk to you about something important.
And that is that as of June 1st we officially began what’s known as hurricane season. This typically refers to the 6 month period from June 1 - November 30th when it is likely that hurricanes develop.
With the devastation that took place after Harvey a few years ago, and with the unexpected plumbing and heat disaster we experienced just earlier this year we know first hand the amount of damage a natural disaster can produce a home.
The time to prepare for such as event is now rather than with the urgency ad worry of last minute preparedness with the approach of an oncoming storm.
Because professional we are professional general contractors and not weather or emergency experts, below are some portions of different news outlets for you to review.
As per USAToday.com, they advise the following:
“Here are a few tips on getting in gear for the season:
First, find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone. If you do, plan where you would go and how you would get there.
You’re going to need supplies, not just to get through the storm but for the potentially lengthy aftermath. Have enough nonperishable food, water and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of three days. Electricity and water could be out for at least that long. You’ll need extra cash, a battery-powered radio and flashlights. You may need a portable crank or solar-powered USB charger for your cellphones.
Call your insurance company or agent and ask for an insurance checkup to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home. Don’t forget coverage for your car or boat. Remember, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding.
If you plan to ride out the storm in your home, make sure it is in good repair and up to local hurricane building code specifications. Many retrofits are not as costly or time-consuming as you may think. Have the proper plywood, steel or aluminum panels to board up the windows and doors.”
And ABC13.com suggests the following:
“When preparing for hurricane season, here are some things to consider:
1. Build a hurricane kit
Sanchez said you and your pets should have enough food, water, medicine and essential supplies to last 7-10 days, whether you're hunkered down at home or forced to evacuate.
2. Make a plan
How will you communicate with your family? Is texting the most efficient way to share information? Where will you go if you are forced to evacuate? Sanchez said these are questions that need answers now, rather than later.
3. Stay weather aware
Look for trusted news sources like the ABC13 news app, and avoid getting news directly from social media where misinformation lurks, Sanchez said. You can also text "GULF2021" to 888777 to subscribe to Harris County's ReadyHarris alerts.
4. Consider getting flood insurance right now
With the 2021 hurricane season already here, time is of the essence. Sanchez said it takes 30 days for flood insurance to take effect, so the sooner you do this, the better. Check out these 8 facts about getting flood insurance.
5. Need help evacuating? Register for STEAR
If you are a person with a disability, limited mobility, communication barriers or require transportation or personal care assistance, the state of Texas offers a free registry that gives local emergency officials additional information on needs in our community, which can include help evacuating during a disaster.
In all, if there is anything we as general contractors can do to help you please let us know. But above all, please forward this email to your family and friends so that all of us (as community) can be prepared and stay safe for anything that might come our way.