Are You Prepared if a Hurricane Should Strike?

One of the realities of living along the coast, especially in the Southeastern United States, is that hurricanes strike from time to time. Sometimes we get lucky and they stay further out to sea, but sometimes they make landfall and can pose a risk to homes and families. It’s important to pay attention to the weather and be prepared should a hurricane form.

Before the Storm:

  • Stock up on essential items such as non-perishable food, water, batteries, flashlights, and first aid supplies. You don’t know what the impact will be or how long you may be without power, water, or access to resources.
  • Have a portable radio or television handy to stay up-to-date on storm progress.
  • Prepare your home by moving valuables to upper floors in case of flooding, boarding up windows if you live near the coast, and securing any outdoor furniture or equipment.
  • Familiarize yourself with the evacuation route for your area (North Carolina or South Carolina) in case you need to leave.
  • Make arrangements to help elderly family members or those with special needs and ensure they have access to necessary equipment and medication.
  • Create an emergency plan and review with your family so everyone knows what to do.

During the Storm:

  • Stay indoors. If you must go out, avoid flooded roadways and downed power lines. Call your local electric company to report power outages and downed lines.
  • Continue listening to the radio or television for storm updates.
  • Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve cold air and keep food from spoiling more quickly should the power go out. Also unplug any unnecessary appliances and electronics to protect them from power surges or lightning strikes.
  • Check in on family, friends, or neighbors who may need assistance.

After the Storm:

  • Check in and around your home for any damage from the storm. Keep children and pets away from these areas.
  • Report any downed power lines and do not touch anything they may be touching. If a power line lands on your car, remain inside until help arrives. If you must exit the car, avoid touching any part of the car and land on both feet.
  • Restock your emergency supplies in case of another storm.

One of the best things you can do is stay alert and prepare in advance. It is better to be overly prepared than under prepared. Keep your family and home as safe as possible. Kuester can help your HOA community to be more prepared for hurricane season and put the right plans in place.

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Bryan Kuester

Bryan Kuester

Bryan is the CEO of Kuester Management Group. He has over 15 years of managing community associations throughout North and South Carolina.

His specialties include Community Association Management - maintenance, budgeting for operational and reserve funding, long-range planning, covenant enforcement, amenity management, onsite management, large scale management.