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Prepare for the storm season ahead with an emergency plan
Into each life some rain may fall, but a thorough hurricane preparedness plan can provide a silver lining in an emergency.
The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30 and may be a busy one. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, reports a 60% chance of an above-normal hurricane season.
A proactive approach can protect your family and property against the threat of severe weather. Farm Bureau members can access resources through vafb.com to help determine your risk, devise a plan, build an emergency kit and secure your property. When shopping for emergency supplies, remember your Farm Bureau membership affords you savings from Grainger.
Hurricanes often generate rainfall that can cause severe flooding over wide areas, as well as spawn tornados, and severely affect areas well inland. Before a storm is imminent, plan a safe evacuation route out of its path. Review and become familiar with the plan well in advance with family, friends and co-workers.
Essential items for evacuation, or returning to your property after a severe storm, include the following:
- flashlights and extra batteries
- portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
- first-aid kit
- emergency food and water (for humans and pets)
- non-electric can opener
- any personal medicines and supplies
- duct tape, extra flashlights, batteries, glow-sticks, tarps, cleaning supplies, insulated coolers, gas can, generators, all-purpose extension cords and portable blowers, all available from Grainger.com.
During the storm:
- Monitor the news.
- Stay inside, and keep pets safe with leashes or crates.
- Tell someone your location, and review your plan with loved ones.
- Charge your phone.
- Use flashlights, not candles.
After the storm:
- Listen to local news for emergency instructions.
- Make contact with others.
- Avoid walking or driving in floodwater.
- Avoid drinking tap water, and check for food spoilage.
- Take photos for insurance claims.
- Be aware of natural gas leaks, and watch for sparks and broken or frayed wires.
- Be sure electrical systems or appliances are not wet before using.
- Check for damaged pipes.
- Disinfect items that may have been contaminated.
For more storm preparedness information, visit grainger.com/content/hurricanes, Virginia Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Co.’s Virginia Hurricane Preparedness Central resource and the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety’s hurricane resource page.