LuminAID Blog

Why you need a reliable backup

With hurricane season rapidly approaching, it’s time to start preparing for potential storms. While hurricanes hit hardest along the coast, they can also cause effects seen hundreds of miles inland. In conjunction with the National Weather Service’s Hurricane Preparedness Week, we have put together some tips to help protect you, your family, your home, and your neighborhood. Identify your needs Spend some time thinking about potential hazards in your area. If you are not sure about the possible risks, FEMA provides a map that outlines hazard info across all of the United States. First and foremost, do you live in an evacuation area or an area prone to flooding? Hurricanes create strong storm surges along the coast, producing floods, rip currents, and strong waves that can cause a lot of damage. Do you live in an area with a lot of wind or a lot of trees? Strong winds can uproot trees, bringing down power lines and creating power outages. Are you situated in an area susceptible to flooding from heavy rainfall? Even if you are located inland, you could still be affected by heavy rain. Formulate a plan After you’ve identified your risk and needs, come up with a written evacuation plan. Figure out where you would go, how you would get there, and when you would have to leave. If you have a friend who lives in a safer, non-evacuation area, inquire as to whether you can use their home as an evacuation site. Keep your pets in mind when formalizing these plans as most shelters will not account for pets during hurricane times. Remember to write down all necessary contact information for emergency management offices, law enforcement, public safety/fire rescue, local hospitals, utilities, American Red Cross, and your property insurance agent. Assemble disaster supplies Prepare everything you will need in case of emergency before the storm hits. Store your disaster kit in a cool, dry place. Make sure you have enough supplies to last you at least 72 hours and ensure everyone in your household knows where the kit is located.