When it comes to storm prep, you can never be too careful. In fact, the CDC recommends planning ahead of time so you don’t have to fight crowds or be in the unfortunate predicament of not having enough food supply or medical necessities. But what about when it comes to your home, boat, or even your vehicle? Are you well prepared for any amount of disaster that may strike? These are assets that have value and need to be cared for in similar ways. Your Palm City insurance companies need to offer helpful preparation tips that include these important qualities.
Storm Prep Tips
So, you’re hearing news swirling of a possible tropical storm. You’ve kept up with the news and weather to stay alert. Whether you’re new to an area that is susceptible to storms, or you know exactly what to expect, it’s safe to say that no two storms are exactly alike. It’s best to treat each storm as potentially serious. Tropical storms can easily turn into hurricanes, and it’s best to know what you’re facing as the hours progress.
- Always have an evacuation plan for you and your family.
- 3 days of non-perishable food supply
- Flashlights, personal hygiene and sanitation items, first aid kit
- Waterproof container with cash and important documents
- Battery-operated radio with extra batteries
- Insurance in place
Know the difference between tropical storm watches vs. warnings. Tropical storm watches are for storms that have winds of up to 73 miles per hour. These watches are to be monitored very closely. A tropical storm warning means that you can expect these storm conditions to be present in your area at any given time.
Hurricane watch vs. warning – A hurricane has a wind speed of 74 miles per hour or greater. An issued watch is given 48 hours in advance to prepare citizens for the onset of the storm. When a hurricane warning has been given, you can expect a 36 hour advanced notice to prepare for strong winds.
How Do Tropical Storms Affect My Boat?
When you live in a tropical climate, you can expect some sort of tropical storm to sweep through at some point. The severity of the storm usually is unpredictable but should be prepared for, especially for those who dock their boat. If you are docking your boat, it’s important to know that storm surges and rain bands can cause waters to swell and tornadoes to occur. Water swelling is a result of a storm surge that quickly floods the coastal line but can also reach further inland. Rain bands can produce some serious weather conditions that can form into tornadoes and heavy wind and rain.
Boats that are docked should be protected against chafing with strong and sturdy dock lines. These dock lines need to be arranged accordingly so the boat is suspended in what looks like a large web. This is to secure the boat from rising and being tossed to and fro.
Boats that are in the water and not on dry land should be secured in a hurricane hole. This hole is a secured and protected harbor. If you’re securing your boat in the water, keep in mind that you need to decide which harbor will be safer, should the hurricane reach the shoreline. The high water of a storm surge is one of your biggest concerns, because it can reach up to 10 ft or more.
Your safest bet is to be prepared way ahead of time by having a plan in place with one of your trusted local Palm City insurance companies. Triple L Insurance customizes insurance for your property, vehicle, and boat during all seasons. Get a quote today!
