Life during the COVID-19 pandemic is stressful enough, but what do you do when it’s hurricane season, too? Kong Management Group is here to help you plan and prepare, so you can weather any storm while still protecting yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19. Here are some tips to help you stay safe during hurricane season:
Preparations May Be Different Than Years Past
With shortages of items and delayed delivery times, your preparations for hurricane season may be challenging. We recommend that you start gathering essential supplies now, including non-perishable food, water, and medicine, to last for a minimum of seven days. If you have pets, don’t forget to get enough supplies for them, too! While home delivery is the safest choice, make sure to follow mask orders, sanitation procedures (like hand washing) and social distancing requirements if you need to head to the store.
In addition to gathering essential supplies, you’ll also need to make sure that important documents like your insurance policies and your ID are current. Keep these documents in a safe place or create password-protected digital copies. Also, download helpful apps like FEMA and sign up for local emergency alerts to keep you informed. Make sure to keep your cell phone charged when a hurricane is in the forecast and to have back-up chargers on hand.
It’s a good idea to have a hurricane plan for your entire household. If you or a loved one has a disability, you may need additional help during an emergency, so make sure to include those accommodations in your plan. Also, if you have pets, you may need to make separate plans for their care, since many public shelters do not allow animals. As part of your planning, identify where everyone will stay in the event of a hurricane emergency, know your evacuation routes, and practice how you’ll get there before there’s a storm threat!
Another difference from other years is that public shelters must now follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines to keep you safe from COVID-19. Before a hurricane threat occurs, familiarize yourself with any updated plans and safety requirements for emergency group shelters. Make a “go kit” for sheltering that includes medication, disinfectant supplies like hand sanitizer or wipes, soap, and two face coverings per person.
How To Stay Safe After Storm
After a hurricane passes, listen to authorities for information and special instructions. You’ll still need to follow local orders and CDC guidance for safety. Even during recovery efforts, taking preventative actions like hand washing and wearing masks is recommended.
As you clean up after a storm, avoid any standing water, which can contain dangerous debris or can be electrically charged by downed power lines. If you notice damage to your home, document it with photographs and make sure to contact your insurance company for assistance.
If the power or water is out, be prepared that it may take longer than usual for utilities to be restored. Because the phone system may also be down, use text messages or social media to stay in touch with family and friends.
Also, know that it may be difficult for you to access medical care due to the pandemic. If you are ill or injured, contact your doctor immediately for guidance. If you have a preexisting condition, make sure to continue your prescribed treatment.
Dealing with a disaster like a hurricane can cause anxiety and worry, and those feelings might feel even stronger because of the uncertainty caused by COVID-19. Make sure that you reach out to people who can help, including the team at Kong Management Group, for assistance if you need it. You can contact us at 866-499-9026 or info@kongmg.com. Our residents are our top priority, and we want you to stay safe in the storm!
