5 Practical Ways to Prepare for Hurricane Season
As any long-time Savannah resident knows, time is of the essence when a hurricane is knocking on the door. Even a tropical storm can quickly become catastrophic; storm surges can strand people in their homes, heavy downpours can flood an area within minutes, and tornadoes and 70-mph winds can tear apart roofs in the blink of an eye.
That’s why it’s always imperative to be prepared for bad weather during hurricane season. Here’s what to know as you begin creating your disaster plan.
5. Waterproof Important Documents & Personal Items
If you live along the eastern coast, including here in Savannah or Tybee Island, you should store all your valuables in closed, waterproof containers that are raised above flood level. Plastic storage totes, bins and Ziplock bags are affordable options that should keep your documents safe from floodwater. Even with flood insurance, these items of sentimental or intangible value won’t be replaced, so take care of it in advance for peace of mind.
In the event you must evacuate from the vicinity, it’s also important that these items can be easily accessed and quickly transferred to your vehicle.
4. Minimize Damage to Your Home
A floodproofed home doesn’t just protect its structure and your possessions from water damage; it also protects you from myriad dangers produced by flooding.
First, there’s the danger of electrocution. If floodwater reaches your home, err on the side of caution by shutting your power off at the main circuit breaker. This eliminates the threat of being electrocuted.
However, if you must power devices – whether you opt to use a generator or keep circuit breaker on – consider keeping all plugged-in appliances raised on platforms above flood level, preferably on the second floor of your home. This includes window air-conditioning units, mini fridges, fans, computers, etc.
Next, you’ll want to assess the perimeter of your home. Inspect and perform the following tasks:
- Check downspouts for any debris that would let standing water sit near your foundation.
- Clean out all ditches and storm drains adequately.
- Ensure street drains aren’t obstructed.
- Line your foundation with sandbags.
- Tie down or store any potentially dangerous objects, including lawn ornaments, outside chairs, patio umbrellas, grills, etc.
- Trim away any dead tree limbs ahead of time.
- Reinforce fences, garage doors, and other exterior doors with hurricane-approved head bolts, braces and other hardware.
- Repair or replace damaged roof shingles to prevent leaking or flooding inside the home.
- Close and latch shutters on windows, or board them up.
- Photograph all outside and inside areas of your home before the storm; this ensures you have evidence of storm damage when submitting any insurance claims.
- Lower the water level in swimming pools by at least 12-to-18 inches.
- Designate a safe room.
Example of potential storm surge flooding issued before Hurricane Matthew struck Savannah, GA.
3. Build an Emergency Hurricane Supply Kit
Like an emergency roadside kit, your hurricane preparedness kit should be personally built and customized to meet your needs. Generally speaking, these are the items you should consider adding to any hurricane supply kit:
- Potable drinking water (1 gallon per day per person)
- Non-perishable food (7-day supply)
- Pet food
- Battery-operated or crank radio
- Flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Spare phone battery, power bank or smartphone charging device
- First-aid supplies
- Hand sanitizer
- Hygiene items
- Whistle or similar device to alert others
- Can opener
- Multitool or knife
- Spare clothing
- Blankets
- Medications
- Identification
- Toys or games for entertainment
- Emergency contact information
Do you know your emergency evacuation route? Tune to 91.1 FM (Savannah) or dial 511 for updates on severe weather updates and mandatory evacuation plans. A physical map is a great resource to include in your hurricane kit, too.
2. Join Georgia’s Hurricane Registry in Advance
Those in Georgia who require more direct assistance during a hurricane – for instance, elderly members of the community with little to no family in the area – can apply to join the Hurricane Registry. (Residents in Bryan, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long and McIntosh counties are eligible.)
The Hurricane Registry helps by evacuating those in need to a safer location prior to a hurricane. Evacuees will be transported inland and provided with essential accommodations until the danger passes.
Applications are only accepted far in advance (72 hours) of any tropical storm system. To register, visit gachd.org or call 1-833-243-7344 as early as possible.
1. Fuel, Service & Protect Your Vehicle
When news of a potential landfall hurricane emerges, plan early by filling up the gas tank and portable fuel containers. If you must evacuate, you’ll want to avoid the throngs of unprepared people at the pump.
To keep your vehicle protected, it’s best to park inside a secure location – either your garage or a parking facility that’s above ground. Not only will this reduce the risk of flood damage to your car, but it also prevents flying debris from destroying windshields, mirrors, windows and the car’s body.
If you must keep your car outside during a hurricane, take these extra steps to prevent as much damage as possible:
- Do not park under or near trees, power lines, utility poles, large signs, or any medium- or lightweight items that could become projectiles.
- Park as high above ground level as possible.
- Cover your car with a tarp or, if necessary, thick blankets that can be tied down with bungee cords or secured via closed car doors.
- Check your auto insurance policy to see if you’re covered for flood damage, hail damage, and hurricane damage.
- Lexus owners may also gain extra peace of mind by purchasing a “car bag.” These bags fit tightly over the vehicle to keep standing water out.
It’s also a great idea to schedule auto service, preferably before hurricane season, which runs from June to November. Perform all necessary maintenance tasks, including changing your oil, checking and replacing brakes, rotating tires, and aligning your front-end.
If you need Lexus maintenance or general auto service before a hurricane in Savannah, give our repair center a call at (912) 231-0005. We’d be happy to schedule an appointment for you so that you can be as prepared as possible for the next storm.
About Chatham Park Lexus
Offering Lexus sales and service throughout Savannah, Chatham Park Lexus is your source for luxury cars in Georgia. Serving customers and shoppers in Port Wentworth, Pooler, Richmond Hill and beyond, we’re the Savannah Lexus dealership to trust. Contact us at 888-379-0084 to speak with a member of our sales or Lexus service team.