Hurricane Season Reminder

It's mid August and the hurricane which has been fairly active so far will begin to get ready to go into it's peak which is in mid September.  As of today, we have had seven named storms, luckily none were hurricanes and their effects have been minimal on populated areas.  Keep in mind though that while the peak of hurricane season isn't until September, Mother Nature does not follow our Julian calender, so a storm can threaten at anytime before or after the climatological date of the peak.  If you are not familiar with the basics, read the links provided within this entry from last year.

Before a storm ever threatens, now is the time to review and refresh your supplies and preparedness plans.

Check your shutters to make sure they are operational, replacement screws and parts will be harder to find when a storm is near.  Start making plywood coverings, stain or seal them with a water sealant so that they can be used again next season.

Replenish batteries, snacks, canned foods and other items listed in my earlier entry or corresponding links.

When a storm actually threatens your area, you will have less stress and more time to do other preparations that can make the days following a storm without electricity or potable running water easier.
NHC- Preparedness
If you have done the basics and feel confident that you are ready if a storm threatens, then consider these additional tips.

Wash, prep and season meats in meal sized portions, then freeze.  When the power is gone and water is unsafe, you simply thaw and throw on your grill.  No mess, no fuss.

Do your laundry, vaccum the rugs, clean as you would if guests were coming over, it will help keep your mind off of the impending storm and will make the aftermath more bearable and manageable if you don't have to think about how to accomplish these tasks without electricity or water.

Once your house is secured and you are confident with the supplies you have on hand, spend some time baking or making snacks that can be stored at room temperature.  I enjoy making rock buns which can stay fresh up to two weeks in an airtight container, that's if they last that long.  Make something that your family considers a comfort food for dinner the night before the storm and try to maintain as much normalcy as you can for your family. 

Hurricanes and storms can be stressful and frightening, however with preparations done well in advance, such as an evacuation plan, shutters and supplies for up to two weeks, you should feel confident that you are better prepared than most. 

Now I realize that it's been a while since my last entry, but many exciting changes have occurred causing me to have less online time, but the finish line is close and soon I'll be able to get back into the swing of things with lots more to share, until next time, thanks for visiting and reading, I'll post when I can.