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Hey Florida! Jarrett Dixon here, owner of Master Restoration. As someone who lives and works right here in the great state of Florida, I know we all cherish our beautiful sunshine and coastal living. But we also live in a state synonymous with something less desirable: storm season. From tropical depressions to full-blown hurricanes, severe weather is a part of life here, and understanding how to prepare for the worst is absolutely critical.
Ignoring the threats of severe weather isn’t an option. I’ve seen firsthand the chaos and heartache that follow when homes and businesses are caught unprepared. That’s why I want to talk about storm damage in Florida and, more importantly, how to prepare to protect your property and your peace of mind.
Storm damage isn’t just one thing; it’s a destructive combination of forces. You’re dealing with:
High Winds: These can cause devastating structural damage, tearing off shingles, ripping off entire roofs, shattering windows, and sending unsecured outdoor items flying, turning them into dangerous projectiles.
You’re also dealing with heavy rainfall and flooding. Even without a major storm surge, torrential rain can lead to widespread flooding, both from overflowing waterways and from water penetrating compromised roofs or foundations. This can saturate everything, from drywall and insulation to furniture and electronics, leading to extensive water damage and the rapid onset of mold.
For our coastal communities, storm surge is arguably the most dangerous threat. A rising wall of ocean water can inundate properties, causing catastrophic damage and carrying dangerous debris.
You typically have to deal with debris. Fallen trees, broken branches, and scattered outdoor items can cause significant impact damage to your property, block roads, and pose hazards to anyone trying to navigate the aftermath.
Finally, you often have to deal with widespread and prolonged power outages are common, affecting everything from refrigeration to communications.
So, how do you prepare for such a multifaceted threat? It comes down to proactive planning and taking tangible steps before a storm is even on the horizon. Here are some tips:
Create a Family Emergency Plan: This is your blueprint for safety. Discuss evacuation routes, designate a meeting place, and establish an out-of-state contact person for family members to check in with. Know your evacuation zone!
Assemble an Emergency Kit: Don’t wait until a storm is bearing down on us to gather supplies. Instead, assemble an emergency kit well in advance, aiming for a seven-day supply of essentials for every member of your household, including pets. This crucial kit should include one gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food, and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio. Be sure to pack flashlights with extra batteries, a comprehensive first aid kit, and all necessary prescription medications along with a list of dosages. It’s also wise to have copies of important documents, such as insurance policies, IDs, and medical records, stored safely in a waterproof bag. Don’t forget cash, as ATMs may not work during power outages, and remember to include a manual can opener, personal hygiene items, and phone chargers or power banks.
Secure Your Home: This is where you can significantly mitigate potential property damage, and there are several key areas to pay special attention to. Your roof and windows are paramount; inspect your roof for loose shingles and make any necessary repairs well in advance. Consider installing hurricane shutters or having plywood cut to fit your windows, and remember that garage doors are particularly vulnerable, so reinforce them if possible. Next, take care of yard cleanup by trimming any dead or weak tree branches that could fall on your home or power lines. It’s also crucial to bring in or secure all outdoor furniture, grills, trash cans, toys, and anything else that could become a dangerous projectile in high winds. Don’t forget to inspect your gutters and drains, clearing them thoroughly to ensure proper water flow away from your foundation. Lastly, if you’re in a flood-prone area, elevate your valuables by moving important documents, electronics, and other precious items to higher floors or elevated storage.
Review Your Insurance: Understand your homeowner’s policy. Critically, remember that standard homeowner’s insurance typically does not cover flood damage. You need a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Review your coverage with your agent annually. Document your possessions with photos or videos.
While preparation is key, sometimes the worst still happens. If your property does suffer storm damage – be it wind, water, or impact – remember that Master Restoration is here. Our 24/7 emergency response teams are ready to provide immediate board-up services, water extraction, debris removal, and all necessary mitigation to prevent further damage and begin the restoration process.
Until next time, this is Jarrett Dixon reminded you: Got a disaster? Call the Master!