Joe Foster's Blog

Most of us Floridians have grown accustomed to keeping a close eye on the weather – especially this time of year. With the latest storm, Tropical Storm Fay, we are again facing the realization that we may have a busy hurricane season in the works. As luck (or fate) may have, the Sarasota / Bradenton areas narrowly escaped a direct hit from Tropical Storm Fay, but who’s to say that our luck will stay in tact?

For those of you outside of Florida, or those who are new to the area that have never experienced a tropical storm or hurricane, it is critical to be prepared. You should know what supplies to have on hand, what level evacuation zone you live in, nearby shelters, and evacuation routes.

Here is a link to a list of suggested supplies that you should have on hand when preparing for a hurricane: Hurricane Supply Checklist.pdf

(You will need to have Adobe Reader installed on your computer to view this document. If you do not have it, I have provided a link to a free download for it on the left navigation of my web site.)

There are numerous helpful web sites to assist you in keeping up-to-date on Florida weather conditions. Here are just a few:

Weather.com http://www.weather.com/

Tampa Bay Online http://tbo.com/

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration http://www.noaa.gov/

Boat US http://www.boatus.com/hurricanes/

FEMA http://www.fema.gov/index.shtm

Additionally, here is some are some helpful tips (provided by FEMA) that you should keep in mind when preparing for a hurricane, what to do during a hurricane, and how to recover from disaster after a hurricane:

Before a Hurricane

To prepare for a hurricane, you should take the following measures:

• Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
• Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage.
• Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed.
• Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
• Determine how and where to secure your boat.
• Consider building a safe room.

During a Hurricane

If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should:

• Listen to the radio or TV for information.
• Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
• Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
• Turn off propane tanks.· Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
• Moor your boat if time permits.
• Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.

You should evacuate under the following conditions:

• If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.
• If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure—such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground.
• If you live in a high-rise building—hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.
• If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an inland waterway.
• If you feel you are in danger.

If you are unable to evacuate, go to your safe room. If you do not have one, follow these guidelines:

• Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
• Close all interior doors—secure and brace external doors.
• Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm - winds will pick up again.
• Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.
• Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.

Recovering from Disaster

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. This section offers some general advice on steps to take after disaster strikes in order to begin getting your home, your community, and your life back to normal.

What health and safety guidelines should I follow?

How do I clean my damaged home or repair and rebuild it safely for the future?

What precautions should I take when returning home?

Where can I get assistance?

How do I cope with the emotional effects of a disaster?

How can I help children cope with the emotional effects of a disaster?

How can I help someone affected by a disaster?

We all hope and pray that we never have to take these precautions, but it is a part of living in Florida. Hurricanes are one of the few natural disasters that we can predict and prepare for. I’ll take that over snow storms, mudslides, and twisters any day!