Boca Raton Premier Properties Annual Hurricane Reminder

Coastal Residents are Getting Prepared for an Active Hurricane Season

With the wake of Hurricane Florence shedding her aftermath including storm surge, flooding and more, Boca Ratonians are reminded of how vital it is to be prepared. Each year our agency strives to help our coastal residents to make for yet another active hurricane season. Read more to learn essential tips on how you can formulate a valuable game plan formulating best practices before a South Florida storm.

Peace of Mind Prior to Investing in Real Property in a Hurricane Zone

While many people looking to invest in property here may be curious what type of risk may be involved, knowledge is key for peace of mind. The good news is these storms have the potential to be dangerous but if you follow the evacuations and get prepared you and your property will most likely stay safe. In most cases, individuals who don’t heed the warnings are the ones who can forecast a less than desirable outlook.

Hurricane Irma and Florida Light and Power

Last year we experienced Hurricane Irma who soared in with a vengeance. But, there was minimum damage done considering the category 4 storm could have ripped apart the city and anyone living in our coastal community would have faced devastation. But, frequently these waves of water and wind, lessen strength once they near the land. However, we can never be too confident as Mother Nature has her way of doing things regardless of our ideal situation. While some people lost power during Irma, many did not as Florida Light and Power managed to maintain the power grid keeping it working even though the inclement weather. Nonetheless, there’s always a chance there could be such a loss. Therefore, having generators or understanding where to go is extremely important to staying comfortable at least.

Information is Key to Safety for Boca Raton Weather

Get informed. Information is 90% of the battle when combatting against tropical storms. You can load yourself and family with excellent instruction by listening to state and local news and visiting the National Weather Service. Stay close to your radios and be sure to purchase extra battery packs for charging electronics and cell phones. You’ll find by having portable cell phone power banks, you’ll gather more peace of mind. Besides, devices such as cell phones and the Apple Watch allow you to dial 911 during an emergency, even when there are no cell service connections. Some of the storage centers have waiting lists and require space ahead of time. Don’t hesitate to contact them weeks before the storms predicted the time frame. Both you and your boat will be happy you took this extra step.

Snowbirds Prep Before Heading Home

Most of our snowbirds or part-time residents get their homes ready for the hurricane season before moving back North, East or wherever. They want to be ensured they’ll have a home to come back to once the season is complete. That means additional preparation before evacuating for the summer months must be taken. Be sure to turn the electricity off, protect your valuables and be sure the hurricane impact windows are in stable condition. Also, unplug any unused items such as televisions and coffee makers, etc., The fewer things that are plugged into the outlets, the less chance of electrical fires.

Boaters and Yachters Don’t Procrastinate

Boater’s and people with yachts must begin preparation weeks before. If you have a vessel docked at a marina or somewhere on the property, be sure to take extreme measure to protect your investment weeks prior. If you’re planning on moving your boat into storage, do this ahead of time. Some

Don’t Go Outside till the ‘ALL CLEAR’ is Made

Don’t go out until the ‘ALL CLEAR’ is announced and this remains especially true with beach-goers. Many people toy with the idea there’s not much that can happen during phases of rain bands and such. In fact, there were still people out windsurfing and running up and down South Florida’s beaches almost mocking the storm. We would never recommend anything that crazy and suggests that you remain hunkered down until the authorities give the all clear.

Get Your Food and Water Supplies Months in Advance

Stock up on food and water supplies EARLY! Don’t wait until a storm is brewing out in the Atlantic Ocean to get canned goods and bottled water. In most cases, the procrastinators will be scurrying to find these things at the last minute when supplies become depleted. You can buy a few items each week and create a constant amount of food or water, so you’re less stressed a week before the storm’s presence. We can’t stress this rule enough as we’ve seen firsthand how anxious people become at the grocery stores.

Get Cash Before Storm Hits, No ATMS are Available

Don’t forget to get an adequate amount of cash that will last you for weeks. Reason being, if you’re new to the area, you may not remember ATM machines will not work during these weather issues. As a matter of fact, the banks will often disconnect and empty these machines before the storm to prevent theft and looting. Don’t wait till you need money, keep funds aside for just an event.

Inspect Your Home for Safety and Flooding Issues

Be sure to have your home inspected before wind and flooding. Ensure with inspectors that things like your roof are warrantied and constructed to withstand the impact. Patch.com makes a good point in understanding what’s covered when it comes to roofing. This holds true with Mediterranean style architecture constructed with clay tiles as these can become projectiles during the storm. The author of the same article also points out to have venting and skylights inspected to avoid costly leaks.

Understand Your Homeowner’s Policy and What’s Covered

Be sure to understand what your homeowner’s insurance covers when buying your home. Your real estate agent can help guide you to ensure you’re obtaining the proper coverage for this type of region. In some cases, an ACT of God is not going to be covered, so it’s essential to have a clear perspective of what you sign up for before relocating to an area with hurricane potential.

Hurricanes and a Normal Part of Tropical Regions, Live with It!

When you live near the beach or any tropical city, the key is to be informed and prepared. The other important aspect is to remember to act before the storm approaches. Securing boats, managing pets and knowing shelters where to go if necessary are all part of homeowner’s responsibility. Don’t hesitate to evacuate if asked. Remember, you can always repair and rebuild your condo or house, but you can’t get back life. Take the necessary precautions and be prepared to keep yourself and family safe.