Summer is synonymous with hot weather, relaxing vacations, and splish-splash fun. But don’t let all the sunny days fool you. Unfortunately, summer is also the time of year when the worst storms and hurricanes occur.
Atlantic hurricane season occurs from June 1 to November 30. This is typically when hurricanes (sometimes called tropical cyclones) develop in the Atlantic Ocean. On average, 10 major storms will occur, with around 5-6 classified as hurricanes. It’s estimated that 2-3 will reach major hurricane status (category 3 or greater).
Because of how catastrophic these hurricanes can be, it’s important to be prepared. This includes things such as getting insurance in order, reviewing family emergency plans, and fortifying and waterproofing your home. This summer, be hurricane strong!
Storm, Hurricane, and Flooding Safety
This summer, keep your home and family safe from summer storms and hurricanes with these tips:
Listen to area radio and television stations and a NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS)
Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there.
Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
Keep children out of the water. They are curious and often lack judgment about running water or contaminated water.
Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood danger.
Because standard homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the U.S. For more flood safety tips and information on flood insurance, please visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web site at www.FloodSmart.gov.
If your area hasn’t experienced flooding but is expected to, here are some things to do in preparation:
Unplug all appliances and cords from outlets to prevent power surges
If you wish to use a portable generator, have a licensed, trained electrician install it
Test your home’s carbon monoxide detectors and smoke alarms to ensure they’re working properly
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Call OnTime Service at 205-942-1405 to schedule your next HVAC, electrical, and plumbing service. We can help protect your home from flooding damages, install sump pumps, and much more!
