Hurricanes of all sizes can be dangerous. No matter how serious the storm is, there are guidelines you should follow to stay safe at home. Here are some safety tips to remember during a hurricane:
If you aren't required to evacuate your home, the best place to be is inside and away from windows. Broken glass and flying debris are extremely common causes of injury in severe storms. Reinforcing your windows will help prevent them from breaking and causing more damage, but it's still important to keep a safe distance. Put as many windowless walls between you and the storm as possible by sheltering in an interior closet or bathroom.
There's a good chance your home will lose power during a hurricane, so have a battery-powered or hand-cranked portable radio to stay informed about the situation outside. This will give you a 24-hour connection to the National Weather Service for updates on the storm's path and severity. Stock up on some extra batteries as well so you can remain connected even if it takes days or more to regain power.
If your power hasn't gone out, there might still be situations where you should turn it off yourself. For example, if water gets inside your home either through a broken window or another leak, you should turn off your electricity immediately. Doing so will prevent possible power surges, electrical shocks and fires.
You should also familiarize yourself with how to turn off other sources like water and gas. Turning off your water main will prevent overflowing sinks, toilets and showers. Shutting off your gas will protect you from leaks and the hazards that come along with them.
These are just the basics of staying safe during a hurricane. Formulate a specific emergency plan with your household so you know exactly what to do to prepare and stay safe should a severe storm occur in your area.
For over 25 years, Mike Johnson, has help Buyers and Sellers in Greater New Haven, and across the state turn their dreams into reality. TAJ REAL ESTATE, LLC is a full service firm specializing in Short Sale, First Time Home Buyers, Sale and marketing of existing Home and Condos, Rentals, FHA 203K Sale and Renovation of Distress Properties, and Investor Purchase.
Mike Johnson is a graduate of Fairfield University, and a resident of Connecticut for over 38 years. He served on the Board of Directors for Hill Health Corporation from 1976 to 1984, has served on the Professional Standard Committee of the Greater New Haven Board of Realtors for over 8 years, served as Board of Directors for that organization from 2009-2012, and on the Farmington Canal Committee for over 10 years.
Mike possesses a high degree of knowledge, experience and integrity, and strives for excellence, as such creating a reputation second to none. Whether your Home is under water (owing more than the mortgage balance), or behind on your mortgage and facing foreclosure, your solution is only a phone call away. Pick up the phone and put your troubles in the hands of a experienced Realtor.
