Hurricanes are some of the most destructive events that can affect coastal regions. Every year, thousands of people are affected by hurricane damage and destruction.
According to a study conducted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, in 2017 alone over $282 billion in damages were incurred due to hurricanes worldwide. This statistic serves as a reminder of just how dangerous these storms can be.
In order to better protect yourself from the harsh effects of hurricanes, it is essential to have items that offer sufficient protection for you and your home. This article will discuss essential items for ultimate hurricane protection.
Emergency Kit
Having an emergency kit prepared in advance of a hurricane is essential for safety. Creating a preparedness checklist can be helpful to ensure that all necessary items are available during the storm.
This should include easy-to-carry items such as flashlights, extra batteries, first aid supplies, and nonperishable food. Waterproof clothing and bedding materials should also be included on the list.
In addition, it is important to have a safe sheltering and evacuation plan in place so that people know where to go if they need protection from high winds or flooding waters. Having an emergency contact number readily available can also help in an evacuation situation where communication with family members may become difficult.
It is essential to have these supplies ready in case of an incoming hurricane as they can mean the difference between life and death.
Flashlights and Batteries
Flashlights and batteries are critical components of emergency preparedness, with research indicating that over 75% of households in the US do not have enough batteries to last through an outage.
It is important to ensure that you have sufficient backup power for lights and other necessities during a hurricane or other natural disaster. Water-resistant lighting is essential if your home is at risk of flooding and flashlights should be stored in convenient locations so as to be readily available when needed.
Flashlights should also be equipped with long-lasting, high-capacity batteries that can last up to 10 hours, depending on the brand and model purchased. Additionally, spare batteries should be kept in waterproof containers so they remain dry even if water were to enter the home.
By investing in quality flashlights and backup power sources such as batteries, households can maximize their safety during hurricanes or other emergencies.
Storm Shutters and Doors
Installing storm shutters and doors is an important step in preparing for hurricane season. Strong, secure storm shutters and doors can provide protection from flying debris, high winds, and water damage caused by hurricanes.
Organizing the type of shutters or doors needed for a particular home should be done prior to installation. Planning the installation process with a contractor is also essential for making sure that all storm-related needs are taken care of before the start of hurricane season.
Shutters come in many varieties – accordion, rolling, Bahama, Colonial, and more – each designed to fit different types of windows or homes. Storm-resistant doors are usually made out of steel or fiberglass and will typically include glass panes that have been treated to resist wind pressure and impact from flying debris.
Homeowners must ensure that their chosen shutter or door is properly installed according to local building codes in order to minimize potential damages caused by storms.
Conclusion
It is essential to ensure proper preparation for a hurricane, which can be incredibly damaging and costly. One statistic to consider is that the average cost of hurricane damage in the United States since 1980 has been $15 billion annually.
Investing in protective measures and preparing an emergency kit before a storm hits can help reduce the risk of losses due to a hurricane. Items such as flashlights, batteries, storm shutters, and doors are all essential purchases when it comes to ultimate hurricane protection.
Taking these steps ahead of time can prove invaluable in providing safety and security during a hurricane.