When life gives you hurricanes, make sure you're more prepared than a squirrel in a nut factory. Discover the unexpected tips for riding out the storm in the Sunshine State.
Sure, you know to stock up on water, batteries, and canned goods. But have you thought about some less obvious supplies that could make your life a whole lot easier? For instance, a camping stove can be a lifesaver if the power goes out and you need to cook. And don’t forget the manual can opener—trust us, your electric one will be pretty useless when the lights go out.
Consider also grabbing some extra garbage bags, not just for the obvious waste disposal, but also for waterproofing and protecting your valuables. And while you’re at it, pick up some pool noodles. Yes, you heard that right! These can be used to block water from entering under doors or as makeshift flotation devices.
But don't forget your essentials:
When a hurricane is barreling toward the Gulf Coast, your neighbors can be your best allies. Create a neighborhood contact list to share resources, information, and support. You can even set up a buddy system for checking on elderly or disabled neighbors. After all, two heads are better than one, especially when you’re both trying to figure out how to reattach a roof!
Organize a pre-storm meeting to discuss evacuation plans, share tools, and compile a list of skills and resources each household can offer. Trust us, knowing who has a generator and who’s got an extra chainsaw can make all the difference in the world.
In this digital age, your smartphone can be one of your best tools for hurricane preparedness. Start by downloading essential apps like weather trackers, emergency alerts, and even local government apps that provide real-time updates. Make sure to have extra power banks charged up and ready to go.
Don't forget to back up important documents and photos to the cloud. And if you have security cameras, make sure they are weatherproof and have a backup power source. Also, consider investing in a solar charger for your devices. It’s like having a tiny bit of sunshine on a cloudy, stormy day.
After the storm has passed, dealing with insurance can be almost as stressful as the hurricane itself. That’s where Avery comes in. Avery specializes in helping clients navigate the tricky waters of insurance claims to get their homes repaired. The process can be delayed due to the high volume of claims, but staying organized is key.
Start by documenting all damage as soon as it’s safe to do so. Take clear photos and videos, and keep a detailed list of damaged items. Contact Avery Construction immediately to get the ball rolling. They can assist in understanding your coverage, filing the claim, and even negotiating with insurance adjusters. Remember, patience and persistence are your best friends here. And maybe a little bit of chocolate. Because chocolate makes everything better.
In the midst of a storm, having the right contacts can be a lifesaver—literally. Here’s a quick list of essential emergency contacts for residents of the Nature Coast:
Hillsborough County Emergency Management: (813) 272-5900
Pinellas County Emergency Management: (727) 464-3800
Pasco County Emergency Management: (727) 847-8137
Polk County Emergency Management: (863) 298-7000
Make sure to save these numbers in your phone, and also write them down somewhere accessible. After all, technology is great—until it isn’t.