So far, hurricane season has been very quiet here in Southwest Florida—and we are certainly grateful for that.
But those of us who have lived in Florida for any length of time know that a quiet start does not necessarily mean a quiet finish.
We are well into hurricane season, but there is still plenty of time for a storm to develop and impact our area. At Seaside, we believe the best time to prepare is before there is a storm on the map and before everyone is rushing to the store for water, batteries, and supplies.
For older adults, individuals receiving home health care, and families who may be away from their Florida homes, preparation is especially important.
Preparing the Person AND the Home
Hurricane preparedness isn’t just about shutters and bottled water. It means thinking about the entire picture.
For someone receiving care at home, that may include:
- Having an adequate supply of medications
- Keeping an updated medication and medical information list
- Knowing how medical equipment will operate during a power outage
- Having backup oxygen or other necessary medical supplies when appropriate
- Knowing where you will go if evacuation becomes necessary
- Keeping emergency contacts readily available
- Making arrangements for pets
- Ensuring family members know the emergency plan
It is also important to understand that home health agencies may have limitations on when staff can safely travel during severe weather. Having a plan in place before conditions deteriorate can help prevent a last-minute emergency.
Don’t Forget About the House
Your home needs a hurricane plan, too.
Whether you live in Southwest Florida year-round or spend part of the year elsewhere, now is a good time to take a look around the property.
Are hurricane shutters accessible and ready to use? Are outdoor items secured or able to be brought inside? Are gutters and drains clear? Is someone available to check the property if you are away? Do you know who you will call if the home is damaged?
These may seem like small details when the skies are blue, but they can become very important when a storm is approaching.
For seasonal residents, having someone local (like Seaside Home Management) who can keep an eye on the home can provide an additional layer of reassurance—especially when you are hundreds or thousands of miles away.
Don’t Wait Until the Forecast Changes
One of the biggest lessons Southwest Florida has learned from past hurricane seasons is that conditions can change quickly. I think of Ian and how it wasn’t until it was about to hit that we realized that it was coming for us.
Once a storm threatens our area, stores become crowded, supplies disappear, contractors become overwhelmed, and families begin scrambling to make arrangements.
A little preparation today can make those days much easier.
Take a few minutes this week to check medications, emergency supplies, important documents, evacuation plans, and your home. Talk with family members about what you will do and where you will go if a storm approaches.
And hopefully, we won’t need any of it.
But when it comes to hurricane season, prepared is always better than surprised.
