Condo Owners in South Florida: How to prepare for a Hurricane

By: Denise & Melissa Stewart

Hurricanes and Condos: Be Prepared

South Florida  has been relatively lucky over the past several years by being spared a Hurricane or Tropical Storms.  What happens when you do not have a storm for several years is that most people start to think that “it won't happen to us” ... but what if it did?  Would you be  be  ready? Just look at Texas, and think how that could have an effect on our lifestyle and the businesses of South Florida...

Knowing  the difference can very helpful.  The National Hurricane Center (NHC)  has clear definitions, which are as follows:
Hurricane Watch:  Indicates the possibility of hurricane conditions within 36 hours.  This watch should trigger your family's plan and protective measures should be initiated. 
Hurricane Warning:  Indicates sustained winds of at least 74 mph are expected within 24 hours or less.  Once this warning has been issued, your family should be in the process of completing protective actions and deciding the safest location during the storm.

If you are asked to evacuate, the NHC says you should do so without delay.

Hurricanes: Have a plan:  Know your home's vulnerability to wind, flooding and storm surges.  
√  Locate a safe room – or the safest area in your home.
√  Have an out-of-state contact so all family members have a single point of contact.
√  Determine where your family would meet if separated.
√  Make a plan for your pets if you should need to evacuate.
√  Check your insurance coverage.  Flood damage is usually not covered by homeowners insurance.  If you live in a low lying area, look into flood insurance now.

Emergency Supply Kit:  Keep your kit up-to-date and check it at the beginning of each Hurricane Season.  The National Hurricane Center recommends at least a week’s supply of the following:
√  Water – One gallon daily, per person.
√  Non-perishable food items (tuna, peanut butter, crackers, etc.), boxed juices, any specialty foods for infants or elderly.  Don't forget a non-electric can opener, paper plates, plastic utensils, etc.  If you have a grill or camping stove, make sure you have charcoal or propane.
√  Blankets, pillows, etc.
√  Seasonal clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes.
√  First Aid Kit – don't forget medications, prescription drugs and any specialty items for infants or elderly.
√  Toiletries and moisture wipes.
√  Flash light and batteries.
√  Emergency radio – remember to replace the battery at the beginning of Hurricane Season. 
√  Make sure all phones are fully charged and vehicles are fully fueled.
√  Cash and credit cards.  (Banks and ATM's might not be available.)
√  Important documents (insurance policies, medical records, bank account information, social security card, etc.) in a waterproof container.
√  Tools.
√  Pet care items:  i.d., immunization records, medications, etc.  Be sure to have water and food, a leash and a carrier or cage. 
√  Books, or games.

The better prepared you are, the better chances you have of weathering the storm. There is a chance that you may have to evacuate your condo or home, so listen to reports on the TV or radio.

For more info about condos in South Florida, call Denise.