In the first of this three-part hurricane preparedness series, we looked at weather definitions and hurricane guidelines. In part II we considered preparation and what to do during a storm. Now we’ll go through what to do after the storm is over. (Keep in mind these are planning tips only, and not intended to cover everything.)
After The Storm Passes
▶ Check myvphome.com, and follow local news stations for important updates.
▶ Use extreme caution when leaving your interior safe space and when leaving your home. There likely will be hazardous situations all around you.
▶ If possible, avoid driving because of road blockages and emergency vehicles. At an intersection with non-functioning traffic lights, treat it as a 4-way stop, and use caution.
▶ Stay away from flooded roadways. You never know what dangers lurk even in seemingly shallow water.
▶ If your house is structurally damaged, evacuate carefully. Do not return until it’s been examined by qualified inspectors.
▶ Phone lines and cell towers may be damaged. Make non-essential calls “off peak.”
▶ Do not drink the tap water until officials have pronounced it safe.
▶ During cleanup, keep debris away from fences, mailboxes, power poles, transformers, and, obviously, any downed electrical wires (see illustration).
Power Outages
Power outages can last from hours to several weeks. Portable generators can help to resume some normal activity, but be sure to use them safely.
▶ Always run generators outside the house. Never run generators indoors or in a garage.
▶ Be sure to turn the generator off and let it cool before refueling. Gasoline spilled on hot engine parts can and does ignite, causing injury, death, and further property damage.
▶ Keep generators away from windows/doors to keep poisonous exhaust from entering.
▶ Never attempt to connect a generator directly to your home’s wiring. Power from the generator will “back feed” into utility lines with the potential to severely injure or kill a neighbor or utility crews. Instead, plug appliances directly into the generator’s outlets.
▶ Use heavy-duty extension cords rated for outdoor use. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for grounding the generator.
Protecting Your Home
▶ To protect your home or property from further damage, cover damaged roofs, walls, and windows with plywood and or well-secured heavy-duty plastic.
▶ Before hiring a repair service, verify its license and insurance. Storm damage often brings unscrupulous individuals who prey on storm victims. Beware of price gouging (a significant increase in the cost of goods or services following a disaster); it is illegal.
▶ Get an estimate first, and be sure you understand the payment terms. Get receipts for both the labor and materials. Take photos of damaged areas and possessions. Keep photos, records, bills, and paid invoices for your insurance representative.
Filing A Claim
▶ Notify your agent, and leave an address and phone number where you can be reached.
▶ Be patient. Cases are prioritized, usually based on their severity or hardship.
Emergency Operations and Hotlines
TIP: Post all emergency numbers by your home phone, store them in your cell phone, and make sure your children know how to access them. Your phones could be your lifeline when a hurricane or severe weather strikes. Sample emergency numbers:
Volusia County
(386) 254-1500
FEMA
(800) 621-3362
Red Cross Volusia County
(386) 226-1400
Animal Control - Volusia
(386) 248-1790
Fire, Police, and other Emergencies
911
Above all, use common sense and patience in dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane. Remember, personal safety always comes first.
Part I of this series covers common-sense guidelines and terms to know during hurricane season.
Part II of this series covers what do expect and do after a hurricane