Though it may seem contradictory, the Sunshine State has some of the worst weather and extreme storms across the country. An astonishing forty percent of all hurricanes in the U.S. since 1851 have directly impacted Florida land, causing a unique set of challenges and risks to local inhabitants.
Immediate effects like flooding, fierce winds, and storm surges threaten people and property, while dune erosion and habitat destruction have a lasting environmental impact. Damages are common along the west coast and southeast part of the state—the areas which face the highest number of hurricanes in the country.
During pre-hurricane-season, it’s always necessary to create an emergency plan to prepare for the worst. Hurricane season during the COVID-19 pandemic has made cautionary measures even more critical. You’ll need to stock up on prevention supplies to keep the viral storm at bay. Ensure you’re ready to face high-speed winds and heavy rainfall head-on by taking the right precautions and planning accordingly.
Hurricane related injury preparation
When a hurricane strikes, the same injuries and illnesses tend to make an appearance. Car accidents, water-borne infections, food poisoning, dehydration, carbon monoxide exposure, broken bones, and more are typical during and immediately after a storm. As a result, investing in a comprehensive family health insurance plan from private exchanges like these is crucial. It ensures you and your family will receive immediate medical attention after storm-related injuries without paying steep out-of-pocket fees.
COVID-friendly emergency supply kit
Having an emergency supply kit is a critical part of safely navigating hurricane season. While you should continue to pack obvious essentials, you should also incorporate additional supplies to remain safe during the ongoing pandemic. Be sure to pack a minimum of two masks per person, hand sanitizer, and antibacterial wipes to keep everyone clean and virus-free.
Be sure to purchase and organize your emergency supplies in advance. Why exactly? For one, shopping for tropical storm essentials amidst bustling crowds of frantic Floridian families spikes your risk of contracting the virus. Additionally, a wait-till-the-last-minute approach may limit your options as shelves clear at lightning speeds.
Advanced evacuation plan
As with all aspects of hurricane preparedness, creating an advanced evacuation plan is critical because of COVID-19. Shelter capacity dwindles, and congregating increases your risk of exposure. Of course, nature is unpredictable and may foil your well-thought-out safety plans. In case you have to seek refuge in a shelter, include additional supplies in your emergency kit and take the proper precautions to avoid contracting coronavirus.
Secure your home
Taking steps to secure your home limits property damage and reduces the risk of injury or death for you and your neighbors. Falling trees and flying debris pose a serious threat to anyone traveling to a hurricane at home. Prevent destruction and injury from loose objects by covering your windows, clearing out rain gutters, trimming trees/shrubs, and stockpiling useful tools like sandbags and plywood.
Take the warnings seriously
As oceans warm due to climate change, hurricanes are becoming progressively faster, mightier, and more destructive. It’s essential to listen to local officials and heed warnings from your city, state, and federal governments. Emergency systems and first responders are already stretched thin because of virus-related complications, which means they may not respond as quickly or efficiently as in the past.
To wrap up
Hurricane season is no joking matter. Take your safety into your own hands by preparing emergency supplies and escape plans before a big storm hits. Take extra precautions to avoid COVID-19 contamination by packing preventative items and keep your family safe during storm season.