Hurricane Preparedness

Hurricane Preparedness

Being Floridians for a number of years, we have learned a few things. You don’t feed the birds at the Hurricane Preparednessbeach and expect them to just fly away. Flip flops are all occasion footwear. We know that while Florida weather is mostly fair skies and sunshine. We also know that it can change rapidly. That is why, we at the Metts Group have assembled a quick checklist for new Floridians about being prepared for those not so ideal days.


Hurricane Terms

There are a number of words you will hear while watching the news in the Tampa Bay area.  All of our local news teams take hurricane forecasts and safety very seriously. Here are few terms you should know:

Tropical Depressions: Weather systems with winds of 38 mph.

Tropical Storms: sustained wind speeds from 39-73 mph

Hurricane: Winds of 74 mph and greater.

Tropical Storm Watch: Tropical storm conditions are possible in the area.

Hurricane Watch: Hurricane conditions are possible in the area. Watches are issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical storm force winds.

Tropical Storm Warning: Tropical storm conditions are expected in the area.

Hurricane Warning: Hurricane conditions are expected in the area.Warnings are issued 36 hours in advance of tropical storm force winds.

Eye: Clear, sometimes well-defined center of the storm with calmer conditions.

Rain Bands: Bands coming off the cyclone that produce severe weather conditions such as heavy rain, wind and tornadoes.

Storm Surge: An often underestimated and deadly result of ocean water swelling as a result of a land falling storm, and quickly flooding coastal and sometimes areas further inland.

ITEMS TO HAVE ON HAND
Your Hurricane Preparedness Kit
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This kit can be used if you are able to stay in your home and can also be placed in a plastic container to take with you should you need to evacuate. You can put your own together or buy a Hurricane Preparedness Kit using the link below or click on the photo to the right.

  • Non-perishable food (enough to last at least 3 days)
  • Water (enough to last at least 3 days)
  • First-aid kit (include any prescription medication you may need)
  • Personal hygiene items and sanitation items
  • Flashlights (have extra batteries on hand)
  • Battery operated radio
  • Waterproof container with cash and important documents
  • Manual can opener
  • Lighter or matches
  • Books, magazines, games for recreation
  • Special needs items: pet supplies and baby supplies if applicable
  • Cooler and ice packs
  • A plan for evacuation and for if family members are separated
  • Full tank of gas in your vehicle in case pumps are not working after the storm
  • Cash in case the power is out and ATMs are down
  • Cell phone charged
  • Also be sure to secure your home and property from possible flying debris
  • Don’t forget your furry friends. Make sure you have food, water and medications for your pets on hand.  If you must evacuate with your pet, take a few toys.   They get scared too. If you must board your pet, make sure you leave all your contact information with the kennel.

Additional tips and information can be found at the following websites:

http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/prepare/ready.php

http://www.tampabay.com/topics/specials/hurricane-preparedness.page

http://www.pinellascounty.org/emergency/knowyourzone.htm

The Metts Group cares about our clients and
hope you continue your wonderful life enjoying the many
amazing things Florida has to offer!

 

Jeanine and Howard Metts
Metts Group at Future Home Realty
Phone: 727-418-5224 or 727-631-4191