Securing Documents & Early Preparation
All up-to-date important papers and documents should be kept together in a safe place. It is recommended that you include the following and have the items readily available:
- Passports, with extra photos
- ID Cards
- Medical and Health records
- Birth Certificates
- Powers of Attorney
- Chequebooks
- Wills
- Marriage Certificate(s)
- Bank books and Bond Receipts
- Stock Certificates
- Auto Registration and Titles
- Insurance Policies
- Personal property inventory
- Cash on hand in local currency and any others that may be used in your country.
Early Preparation
- LPG & Bottle Gas Consumers
In the event of a hurricane, all tanks should be locked down at the valve and left alone. After the hurricane, before opening the valve again, inspect the installation and equipment for damage. If found to be damaged, do not open the valve. Call the suppliers.
- Clear all limbs and rotten tree branches. Call the power company well in advance so that their trained personnel can undertake heavy tree trimming jobs.
- Make sure that fasteners for windows and doors are in order. Prepare wooden shutters to safeguard windows and doors.
- Flat-topped roofs are highly vulnerable to wind damage
- Make sure the roof is securely fixed to the walls.
- Ensure that galvanised sheets are in good order and are securely fastened.
- Keep plastic bags, nails, hammers, saws, wires, ropes and a pliers handy.
- Secure lumber, plywood timber, etc. ready to batten down.
- Ensure that you have emergency equipment, e.g. water boots, raincoats, a flashlight with batteries, battery- powered radio, matches and basic first-aid supplies.
- Stock up on non-perishable foods like corned beef, tuna, jam, peanut butter, crackers, etc.
