Think "PPP" When You Think Hurricane Safety

Robyn Lea is a State Farm Agent. You can contact her at 601-636-4555 during regular business hours or anytime online at www.RobynLea.com. Hurricane season is here. Many people have survived hurricanes without any harm. With modern technology, it almost seems that the path of a hurricane can be mapped out perfectly. But don’t be so sure. All the technology in the world cannot predict what Mother Nature will do. It is important to pay attention, not to just the black line forecasters use for the storm track, but also to the area on either side of it. The average error during the last 24 hours of landfall is about 85 miles, according to the National Hurricane Center in Miami. A moment to plan hurricane safety can give you peace of mind and keep your family and home safe. If you want to be hurricane-safe, just follow the three Ps: PLAN: It’s always important for a family to have a plan for emergencies, whether it be a fire, earthquake or hurricane. Every family member must know what to do to stay safe. When a hurricane threatens, decide if your family will move to a safer place inland, go to a designated shelter or ride out the storm in your home. Make sure you stay in touch with local authorities to know the severity of the hurricane. You should also plan an escape route in case your family needs to evacuate. PREPARE: Your home should have a survival kit prepared for an emergency. It should include nonperishable food items, a first aid kit, a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, fresh batteries and drinking water. Also include other items you might need such as medication, prescription glasses or your insurance information. Although we are far inland from a direct hit from a hurricane, we do sustain damage. Never take for granted that we will not be affected by a hurricane. PROTECT: If you decide to ride out the hurricane, protect yourself. If you do not need to evacuate the area, stay indoors away from windows and glass doors. A tornado is commonly spawned in the midst of hurricane force winds. Put as many walls between you and the storm as possible. If you do not have a basement, go to a closet or bathroom. If you need to leave the area, make sure you go directly to a shelter. Take your survival kit and lock all doors and windows before you go. Let your relatives or friends know where you plan to be. Those who have a hurricane plan do much better than those who do not. Take a moment to plan and communicate the plan to your family today. Planning ahead may help you avoid last minute panic. It could save your home and your family.]]]]> ]]>