Do this for your cars, boats, and RVs to help you be better prepared for hurricane season.
Updated: Jun 13, 2020
When facing a natural disaster, the only two options we have are to stay put, or evacuate. With help from Progressive, the U.S. Coast Guard, and Federal Emergency Management Administration, listed below are tips on how to be ready for evacuation when mandatory.
Before you leave home:
Prepare an evacuation route.
Keep supplies such as non-perishable food, water, emergency kits, and medications in the back of the vehicle.
Ensure that your gas tank is full.
Check all four tires including the spare for proper inflation.
Make sure windshield wipers are functioning well.
Place important documents such as auto and home insurance, vehicle registration, IDs, and other important documents in a waterproof bag and keep them with you.
Keep phones charged
Tips while you drive your car:
Don't drive in waters too deep. (12" of water sweeps cars off the ground)
If the vehicle is stuck in water, you may have to restart your engine. (Be aware that this may severely damage your engine)
If the vehicle doesn't restart, get out of it immediately and make way to a higher ground. If you are unable to do so, call 911.
Once you and your vehicle are out of the water, depress the breaks slowly repeatedly to help them dry.
Boats: Whether Docked, Anchored, or in Dry Storage
Have a storm plan set, before the hurricane hits.
Take all non-secure items, electronics, and excess gear from the boat.
Remove important documents and valuables.
Make sure openings are water-tight, and remove or stow non-essential canvas.
All self-bailing through fittings have to be clear of debris.
Check that batteries are fully charged, and that automatic bilge pump switches are operational.
Boat is Docked:
Use double chafe-protection
Double all lines, and attach them high on pilings to allow for a storm surge. Your boat stands a higher chance at withstanding harsh tides with longer dock lines.
Boat is Anchored:
Ensure that you have space in between your boat and others' boats.
Use multiple anchors.
Have enough line to be prepared for the storm surge.
Boat is in Dry storage:
Secure wheels of boat if it is in a trailer. Take air out of the wheels and secure them with blocks between the frame and the axles.
Clean out drains of debris and ensure that drain plugs are taken off.
Don't leave your boats on davits or on a hydro-lift.
For your RV:
Do not ever drive during a hurricane. RVs are vulnerable to heavy winds.
If you are driving and are stuck in water, you may have to restart your engine to get to safety.
Abandon the vehicle if you're trapped.
My goal is to educate you on how to protect your family and self. Check this site out.
