Brought to you by Cedar Point Federal Credit Union
On day three of Hurricane Preparedness Week, we’re talking about building your hurricane kit. Just having enough supplies to make it through a hurricane isn’t enough. You need plenty of supplies to make it through what could be a LONG recovery period, too.
Whether you’re evacuating or sheltering in place, you’re going to need supplies not just to get through the storm but for the potentially lengthy and unpleasant aftermath.
Have enough non-perishable food, water, and medicine to last each person in your family a minimum of 3 days (store a longer than a 3-day supply of water, if possible). Electricity and water could be out for at least that long.
You’ll need extra cash, a battery-powered radio, and flashlights. You may need a portable crank or solar-powered USB charger for your cell phones.
Keep in mind that even tropical-storm-force winds (39-73 mph) are capable of tossing around debris and causing damage. For this reason, you should seek shelter from the wind in a sturdy building as the hurricane moves inland and before the onset of tropical-storm-force winds.
Hurricane-force winds can easily destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris such as signs, roofing material, and items left outside become flying missiles in high wind. Falling trees cause extensive damage to power lines, towers and underground water lines. This can cause extended disruptions of utility services. Damaging hurricane-force winds can be just as devastating as tornadoes.
Be ready for hurricane season. Today you can determine your personal hurricane risk, find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone, and review/update insurance policies. You can also make a list of items to replenish hurricane emergency supplies and start thinking about how you will prepare your home for the coming hurricane season. If you live in hurricane-prone areas, you are encouraged to complete these simple preparations before hurricane season begins on June 1.
Stay with JB Weather for the latest information on Southern Maryland weather. You can always access my forecasts and updates here on the website, on Facebook, on Twitter, on Instagram, and on YouTube.
-JB
Cedar Point has been providing trusted banking, lending and personal finance solutions to the Southern Maryland Community since 1945. Visit the credit union at any of its 6 locations in St. Mary’s, Charles and Calvert counties or online at www.cpfcu.com.
