Hurricane Supplies For Surviving The Aftermath
Florida Hurricane Claim Lawyers and Attorneys
Hurricane disaster kits are generally designed for short term emergency situations and to get you through the actual hurricane and perhaps the following 24 to 48 hours. However, all too often the aftermath, days, weeks and even months following a Florida hurricane, can actually be the most dangerous even after a relatively mild hurricane.
Even after a tropical storm utilities can be down for weeks or even over a month as experienced in the wake of hurricanes Katrina and Wilma. This means not only just the discomfort of having no air conditioning in 100 degree summer weather but stores and businesses being closed that are relied upon on an everyday basis.
It is critical to be stocked up on Gas when a hurricane comes through. Even in the couple days before a hurricane strikes gas stations normally run out of gas. It can take weeks for them to receive new deliveries. In recent years residents in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach found they even had to travel hundreds of miles, even beyond Orlando to find gas. Certainly if you have to evacuate, you do not want to find yourself stranded on the side of the highway in the middle of nowhere.
Generators are a great investment, though can easily run several hundred to several thousand dollars. Generators can make life far easier and more comfortable in the wake of a hurricane, though again keep in mind if you wait too long to get one you will find them scarce and much more expensive. You also have to be extremely careful when using a generator. Many have died over the years from carbon monoxide poisoning. Also most generators run on gas and will eat up your gas reserves.
When it comes to water, the Red Cross has recommended having at least 1 gallon of water per day per person. You should have at least enough food and water to get through 3 days to a week at a minimum. Though those that can prepare for at least 4 weeks without more supplies will be best positioned to make it through. Of course refrigerators will not work without electricity so stock up on canned foods and other items that can last and do not forget a non-electric can opener. Camping supply stores also sell MRE type meals that heat up in their own containers.
Cooking tools are also important. Plastic plates, cups and silverware will come in handy when there is no running water. You will also really enjoy having a small propane powered cook top for heating up food and not just having to live off of canned food for weeks.
When a hurricane comes through Florida damage can come in many directions resulting in major water damage in your home or leaving your home unsecured and vulnerable to looters. It is wise to invest in a safe for these situations. Either a large safe that can be bolted down or a small portable waterproof and fireproof safe that can be carried with you if you have to evacuate will work. All of your important documents should be protected from both fire and water including ID, bank account and credit card information and of course your insurance policy and the number for an attorney specializing in helping homeowners get the most from their hurricane insurance claims.
