NATURAL DISASTERS

1. Clean debris and leaves from your roof, gutters, yard and street drainages. Nail and seal loose shingles and caulk all windows, doors and siding to prevent flooding and water penetration. Remember that your homeowners insurance policy does not cover flood damages (did you remember to buy flood insurance?)
2. Trim all bushes and trees that are close to your house to prevent damage from abrasion. Look carefully at all your trees, cut dry-loose limbs. If a tree doesn’t look healthy it is best to cut it down (remember you may need a permit from the city/county to cut a tree of a certain size)
3. Bring inside all objects that could move with strong winds: Planters, bicycles, chairs, tables, BBQ, trampolines, etc. Park your car in the garage.
4. Prepare for the possibility of a heavy tropical storm or a mandatory evacuation. Prepare all your important documents and store them in a waterproof container, including your insurance policies for your home. Take some cash out of the bank in case ATMs are out of service. Buy enough non-perishable food and water to last 3 or 4 days. Have enough flashlights, batteries gas stoves and a radio to be able to survive without electricity.
5. Have an emergency plan in case of a mandatory evacuation. Where are you going? Which way are you taking? Try to avoid leaving at the last minute, together with 90% of the city.