Getting Prepared

8/29/2019 (Permalink)

Hurricane season has arrived and SERVPRO of Mandarin has preparedness steps that families and individuals can do today, before the next storm approaches.

While the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicted a near-normal 2016 Atlantic hurricane season with 10 to 61 named storms, it is important to remember that it only takes one hurricane to devastate a community. In addition, caution cannot be limited to coastal states. Hurricanes can be just as destructive for inland communities.

5 Hurricane Preparedness Tips to Tackle Today

1. Download the Red Cross Emergency App.

This new app provides expert advice on what to do before, during, and after hurricanes and other disasters. It also gives instant access to 35 customizable weather alerts, safety tips and preparedness information for 14 different emergencies; all in one free and easy to use app

2. Learn the difference between a Hurricane Watch and a Hurricane Warning.

As hurricane season approaches, it is also important to know the difference between the threat levels.

?  A Hurricane Watch is when conditions are a threat within 48 hours. It’s then time to review and update your hurricane plan. Get ready to act if a warning is issued, and stay informed.

?  A Hurricane Warning is when conditions are expected within 36 hours. It’s then time to complete your storm preparations and leave the area if directed to do so by authorities.

3. Create an evacuation plan for your family.

Planning and practicing your evacuation plan minimizes confusion and fear during the event. Find out about your community’s hurricane response plan. Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs and make plans for your pets to be cared for. Obey evacuation orders. Avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges.

4. Build an emergency kit.

The Red Cross advises that you should include a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant if applicable, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information.

5. Pay attention to the weather forecast and stay informed.

Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS)

6. Download the SERVPRO Ready Plan App.

This is an invaluable tool if you own a home or commercial building.  The SERVPRO Ready Plan App is a part of the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Profile which is a start up approach that provides critical information needed to begin mitigation and recovery services.

SERVPRO provides emergency service 24/7/365.  Our team of professionals are committed to providing fire, water and bio-hazard cleanup and restoration services for all SERVPRO also offers top-quality professional cleaning services for all St. Augustine and St. Johns County homes and businesses.