March 5, 2010, Newsletter Issue #189: Checklist for preparedness

Tip of the Week

Refer to a map and make sure you have your evacuation route and alternate routes plotted. Locate where you live and determine your evacuation level. Determine if and when you would evacuate. Remember, all mobile home residents will be advised to evacuate and in most cases this becomes mandatory.

Decide where you will go if ordered to evacuate.

Check you disaster survival kits and make sure that you have all items you need before the storm.

Keep home in good repair. Tack down any loose roofing and siding. Trim dead or broken branches from surrounding trees.

Make the minor inprovements, such as bracing the gable ends of roofs, needed to make your home safer. Contact a professional engineer, licensed contractor or architect to inspect your home for structural integrity

Make plans and purchase materials to protect your home before the storm such as plywood shutters, or protective window film; plastic sheeting, nails or screws, etc.

Purchase a battery powered weather alert radio and extra batteries

Inventory your property using a camera or a video camera. Store insurance, title papers in a safe place and have copies made to have in your kit. A good tip is to send a copy of all important papers to a relative out of the area in case your papers are lost or destroyed.

Make sure your address is clearly marked on your home.

Whether your rent or own your home, review your insurance policies with your agent now.

Make sure your car is in good repair and is gassed up at all times.

Have all important phone numbers listed in an accessable place.

Make plans for your pets if you have to leave them.

Have a contact plan for all members of your immediate family in case disaster strikes when separated.

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