Preparing Your Estate for Hurricane Season
“Hurricane season brings a humbling reminder that, despite our technologies, most of nature remains unpredictable.” – Diane Ackerman
There are no communities more keenly aware of the importance of hurricane preparation than Miami residents. The unique geographical location of Miami makes it particularly susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms. Preparedness and planning is a must to ensure the safety of your family and property. In this deep-dive, we´ll explore essential steps and strategies to help you effectively prepare your estate for hurricane season, safeguarding both your property and your people.
Understanding the threat.
Miami's proximity to warm ocean waters is what makes it especially prone to hurricanes, which can bring the devastating winds, storm surges, and heavy rainfall we’re becoming more and more accustomed to year on year. Understanding hurricanes is the first step in understanding how to protect your estate from them. Familiarize yourself with the hurricane categories, evacuation zones, and local emergency resources to make informed decisions.
Preparedness: the only protection.
A well-designed hurricane plan is the foundation of effective preparedness. It should encompass pre-storm preparations, evacuation procedures, communication strategies, and post-storm recovery steps. Ensure everyone on your estate, both loved ones and staff, is familiar with their roles and responsibilities.
Get your home ready.
Prior to the hurricane season, conduct a thorough inspection of your property. Identify and address vulnerabilities such as loose debris, weak structures, and overhanging trees. Install hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows to protect against high winds and flying debris. Secure outdoor furniture, equipment, and vehicles to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a storm.
Stock up wisely.
Stockpile essential supplies to sustain your people during and after a hurricane. Think non-perishable food, drinking water, medical supplies, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, and hygiene products. Don't forget to include supplies for pets and livestock if applicable. Store these items in a designated emergency supply kit that is easily accessible to everyone.
Protecting your property is about more than just strengthening its walls.
Sometimes the strongest defenses are made of paper. Review your property insurance policies, including homeowners, flood, and windstorm coverage. Ensure that your policies provide sufficient protection against hurricane-related damages. Consider consulting with an insurance agent to understand your coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions. Keep copies of important documents, including insurance policies, in a secure, waterproof container.
Be heard above the storm
Establish a reliable communication plan to disseminate critical information before, during, and after a hurricane. Utilize multiple communication channels such as text alerts, social media updates, and emergency broadcasts to reach both first responders and those you love. Drill evacuation routes and shelter-in-place protocols, taking into account the specific needs of any vulnerable people and pets.
Calmly recover. Quickly rebuild.
After the storm has passed, conduct a thorough assessment of your property for any damages or hazards. Prioritize safety by addressing immediate concerns such as downed power lines, flooding, and structural damage. Document the damages with photographs or videos to support insurance claims. Coordinate with utility companies, contractors, and restoration professionals to expedite the recovery process.
Here are the Apps I Recommend for Reporting Damages:
Encircle: This app helps capture detailed photos and videos of your property damage, allowing you to easily annotate and share them with your insurance company or contractor.
PlanGrid: Perfect for larger properties, PlanGrid offers advanced features for documenting damage, including floor plans, markups, and collaborative tools for sharing information with restoration professionals.
Community - the best hurricane defense you can build
Engage with your local community and participate in hurricane preparedness initiatives. Pool resources, tips, and best practices with neighbors, businesses, and civic organizations. Educate residents and staff on hurricane safety measures, evacuation procedures, and emergency contacts. Encourage a culture of preparedness and resilience within and around your estate.
Staying updating
To stay updated, you can follow these reliable resources:
National Hurricane Center (NHC): accurate and timely information on approaching hurricanes with NHC's official advisories, forecasts, and tracking maps. (Visit NHC website here)
Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM): They provide specific guidance for Florida residents, including preparation tips and local emergency alerts. (Visit FDEM website here)
National Weather Service: information about local weather conditions and potential hurricane threats (Visit Weather.gov here)
We cannot know when the big storm may come. We are, however, in the privileged position of being able to draw on experience and strength to prepare our estate not just to weather the hurricane, but to flourish again after the winds have passed. If we focus on the details, put the right elements (both physical and on paper) in place and build a network in our community, we will keep our property, and all those who call it home, safe.