5 Good Sense Reasons to Get a Plan

We all know that for most things in life it is always best to plan ahead, but how many people actually do? When it comes to disasters and severe weather you should always have a plan. Safety is number one; act now and get a plan today.

1. “The early bird catches the worm”

We suggest that all individuals and families create an emergency plan, build a disaster supply kit and practice well before any disaster makes its way towards your community. We have all seen, and maybe have been a part of the large crowds that bombard grocery stores or gas stations days before a storm is expected to hit. Usually at this point there is chaos and a low supply while demands are high. Avoid the crowd and gather all necessary items throughout the year before the start of hurricane season. If you shop and collect early you can ensure you won’t miss out on any disaster supply kit essentials. You can also reduce the cost burden by stocking up a little at a time, rather than all at once.

2. Reduce anxiety when disaster is on its way

No matter how much planning you put in there will always be a sense of panic as disaster draws near. However, knowing what to do will greatly reduce anxiety and fear. Talk to your family today, while skies are blue, to discuss what you would do in case of a disaster. Where would you go and what will you need to take with you? Where will you meet if you are separated? Who will you contact to let loved ones know you are safe? What is everyone’s role in case of an emergency? Create a strategy now so all you need to worry about later is exercising your plans.

3. If you choose to shelter-in, you already have everything you need

Sometimes the best option is not to evacuate, but to shelter in a safe location.  By planning ahead, you will have all the items you need if you were to shelter-in. More importantly, you won’t have to fight for the last gallon of water at your local supermarket. A prepared family will have stored enough items to live off of for at least a week. This includes enough nonperishable food and water (1 gallon per person per day) for each family member, including pets. Power may also be out for a prolonged period of time, so alternative power sources such as generators, fuel and alternative light sources like flashlights are important. Don’t forget batteries!

4. If you choose to evacuate, you will already know where to go

If you plan now, you have the time to figure out all the best options should you need to evacuate your home. While evacuation shelters aren’t announced until the storm is on its way, perhaps it would be more comfortable staying with family or sheltering at a hotel.  Additionally, don’t forget to include your pet(s) in your planning! It is important to remember that family pets are not always allowed in emergency shelters. Consider these options: leaving your pets with family in an unaffected area, going to a pet-friendly hotel with the entire family or boarding your pets at a local animal shelter. Knowing your options ahead of time will help you make the best decision for you and your family when a disaster strikes.

5. Home protection

Storms can severely alter a community’s landscape and damage your home.  Take the time to learn what hazards may affect you and learn what steps you can take to protect your home, including having insurance. Set aside funds each year for disaster mitigation. While you cannot make your home hurricane-proof, you can certainly increase its resiliency by retrofitting its structure. You should also create a home inventory. This will help you assess how much insurance you may need, as well as help you leverage insurance to replace belongings after an event. By making these adjustments early on you could prevent major effects post-disaster.

 

Convinced? Check out http://www.flgetaplan.com to get a plan started today!