Comprehensive Hurricane Preparedness Guide for Brevard County, Florida
Understanding Hurricanes and Their Impact
Hurricanes can bring extreme weather conditions including high winds, heavy rain, and flooding. Being well-prepared can significantly reduce the risk to life and property. This guide provides Brevard County residents with detailed preparations to undertake before, during, and after a hurricane.
Before the Hurricane
Preparation before a hurricane is crucial to minimizing damage and ensuring safety:
- Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, a first aid kit, medications, and copies of critical information.
- Home Preparation: Secure your property. Install storm shutters, secure loose objects, reinforce garage doors, and trim overhanging branches.
- Evacuation Plan: Know your area's evacuation routes and have a plan in place in case you need to leave your home. Make sure your car's gas tank is full and you know where you can stay.
- Communication Plan: Ensure that all family members know how to communicate during the storm. Designate an emergency meeting spot and have important contact information readily available.
During the Hurricane
Staying safe during the storm is vital:
- Stay Informed: Keep track of the storm’s progress through a reliable source such as the National Weather Service or a local news channel.
- Stay Indoors: Remain inside and away from windows, skylights, and glass doors. Find a safe area in your home, such as an interior room, a closet, or a bathroom on the lower floor.
- Avoid Electrical Equipment: Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies, and electrical appliances.
- Avoid Floodwaters: Do not go outside to check the damage while it is happening. Do not drive through flooded roadways.
After the Hurricane
Post-hurricane recovery is essential to return to normalcy:
- Inspect Your Home: Carefully inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of the damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.
- Prevent Further Damage: Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Cover broken windows and damaged roofs, but only when it is safe to do so.
- Check for Hazards: Watch out for loose power lines, contaminated water, gas leaks, and structural damage to your home.
- Document Debris: Separate debris into vegetative, construction, hazardous, and household debris for proper disposal. Avoid using plastic bags for vegetative waste to facilitate composting and recycling.
Dumpster Rental for Debris Removal
Express Roll Off provides dumpster rental services to help with the clean-up process after a hurricane. Secure a dumpster early to avoid delays, and use it to dispose of non-hazardous storm debris. Contact us at 321-253-1080 for quick and efficient service, or get a free quote on our website.
Being well-prepared can significantly mitigate the effects of a hurricane on you and your property. By following these guidelines and preparing effectively, Brevard County residents can ensure their safety and a smoother recovery after the storm.
