The prospect of an approaching hurricane can often elicit feelings of panic and confusion. However, a well-planned evacuation strategy can bring a much-needed sense of control during these tense times. Being prepared means considering every aspect of evacuation, from identifying potential shelters to preparing an emergency supply kit.
In light of this, ServiceMaster by Reed prepared this compilation of key do’s and don’ts designed to assist you in creating an effective evacuation plan in line with the recommendations provided by Ready.gov.
Do's:
- Be aware of your risk. Start by understanding the level of hurricane risk associated with your geographical location. If you live near a coast or a large body of water, the threat could be higher. Check local flood maps, understand evacuation routes, and learn your community’s emergency procedures.
- Create a comprehensive evacuation plan. Your plan should outline crucial details such as destination, route, and essential items to bring along. Everyone in your family should know this plan and be ready to act quickly.
- Identify safe locations. Identify at least two safe evacuation destinations that are not prone to flooding. This could be the home of a relative or friend, a hotel, or a public evacuation shelter that is within a reasonable distance.
- Prepare an emergency supply kit. This kit should include necessities such as food, water, medications, important documents, clothes, and cash. Ready.gov provides a detailed list of supplies that could be included in your emergency kit.
- Consider pets: Pets are family members too. If you have pets, remember to include them in your evacuation plan. Look for pet-friendly hotels or shelters in advance.
- Stay updated: Regularly monitor weather updates and emergency alerts from local authorities.
Don'ts:
- Do not disregard warnings. If local authorities issue a mandatory evacuation order, it's crucial to heed the warning. Staying behind can put you and your family at risk.
- Avoid procrastination. Evacuate as soon as an order is given. Delays can result in being caught in heavy traffic or worse, the storm.
- Do not neglect to secure your home. Protect your home by covering windows, securing outdoor objects, unplugging electrical appliances, and moving valuables to higher levels if flooding is anticipated.
- Do not travel against designated evacuation routes. During an evacuation, follow the prescribed routes. Ignoring these can lead to confusion, congestion, and, potentially, danger.
- Don't forget to inform others. Always let a friend or family member who's outside of the danger zone know about your evacuation plans. They should be aware of your whereabouts and expected arrival time.
While the thought of evacuating due to a hurricane can be daunting, a well-considered plan can make the process more manageable. Remember that your primary objective should always be to protect life first; material possessions can be replaced or repaired.
For those who need assistance with damage restoration after a flood or storm, professional services such as ServiceMaster by Reed can be invaluable resources in your recovery process. With our help, you can focus on what truly matters – the safety and well-being of your loved ones.
Contact Us for Professional Flood Damage Restoration in Miami, Florida, and Nearby Areas
Don’t let the aftermath of a hurricane leave you feeling overwhelmed and helpless. At ServiceMaster by Reed, we’re fully equipped and ready to help you manage the cleanup and restoration process after a flood or severe weather event.
Our team of experienced professionals will ensure your property is brought back to its original state as efficiently and seamlessly as possible. Reach out to us today at (954) 922-2020 or message us online for more information.
An independent franchise business licensed to serve you by ServiceMaster Restore®.