Considering Hurricane Irma’s approaching landfall, HMI asks that communities and individuals prepare in case the storm tracks toward Central Florida.  Hurricane Irma can potentially be a dangerous storm, so residents should take measures to ensure the safety of family, pets and property. 
  
Below are a few hurricane preparation suggestions:

1. Start running your ice makers now and bagging the ice in freezer bags. Fill as much space in between your freezer items as you can.

2. Freeze regular tap water for pets, cleaning or drinking in Tupperware-type containers. Leave a small bit of space between the top of the water & the lids so the ice expands but doesn't crack the container.

3. Start using up your perishables to make more room for ice in the freezer.

4. Fill up all vehicles & check tires & oil.

5. Get cash to have on hand, at least enough to get you through tolls and gas if you need to travel out of town.  Call your bank if you plan on leaving the state so they don't freeze your card for out-of-area "suspicious" transactions.

6. Scan important docs and send them to your email. Take originals in sealed bags or plastic bins.

7. Pet & livestock food & supplies. Vet records in case you need to shelter then at a storm-safe facility.

8. Evacuation plans and share with family members so they know where you're headed.

9. Consider putting heirlooms & photos in plastic bins in a high place, second floor, or safe room if you don't plan on taking them with you.

10. SECURE ALL FIREARMS & AMMUNITION PROPERLY.

11. Place old rags & beach towels on your windowsills. Even with the best windows & shutters, water seeping from the wind pressure happens.  A few damp towels are better than soaked drywall or floors!

12. Shutter windows and doors and bring everything outside into your garage or house.  Do not wait until the day before.  Better to get done early and relax than wait until it’s too late, ESPECIALLY IF YOU ARE MANDATORY PERSONNEL (hospital employee or first responder).

13. If you don't already have your hurricane supplies, you might want to get them now.  

14. Your washing machine makes a great cooler. Fill with ice and drinks/food.

15. Charge your cell phones.  Get some external battery chargers and charge those too; or get a hand crank charger.

16. Buy a hand crank weather radio.  These are very helpful after the power goes out to stay informed.

Here are some valuable links to government organizations:

Florida Division of Emergency Management (the latest emergency information)

Ready (actions to take when under a hurricane watch - Department of Homeland Security)

Red Cross Emergency App (instant access to emergency alerts and life-saving information)

Federal Emergency Management Agency (federal disaster response and recovery information)

Filing and Settling Insurance Claims after a Disaster (Insurance Information Institute)
 

With more than 45 years experience in the Central Florida area, Hara Community 1st Advisors has the expertise needed to efficiently manage your Condominium or Homeowner’s Association while providing the highest level of service to Boards and Owners. Contact HMI’s Regional Director Rick Michaud, or visit HMI online to learn more about their variety of client-customized services for community association management today.