It is unfortunate how disastrous Hurricane Sandy was, and the impact it had on many people’s lives.  In the case of a natural disaster you should always be prepared and have a family plan of what to do.    Though the situation is devastating, in many reports people have stated they were not fully prepared for a hurricane at this magnitude  We at Garrick-Santo send our warmest regards to the family’s impacted by storms this season and wanted to help others that have seen the latest forecast of snow storms and rain storms throughout United States.  The following are some ways to prepare for a natural disaster including a family communication plan:

Before a Natural disaster occurs:

  • Begin preparing an emergency kit (emergency kit list below)
  • Make a family communication plan (plan example below)
  • Know your surroundings
  • Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected if storm surge or tidal flooding are forecasted.
  • Identify levees and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard to you.
  • Learn community hurricane evacuation routes and how to find higher ground. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate.
  • Make plans to secure your property:
  • Cover all of your home’s windows. 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 so they are more wind resistant.
  • Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
  • Reinforce your garage doors; if wind enters a garage it can cause dangerous and expensive structural damage.
  • Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
  • Determine how and where to secure your boat.
  • Install a generator for emergencies.
  • If in a high-rise building, be prepared to take shelter on or below the 10th floor.
  • Consider building a safe room
  • Emergency Kit

We hope this information is helpful, thank you.