Climate disasters are threatening human lives on a near-constant basis. With disasters increasing in frequency and intensity, there is a greater need for disaster preparedness, especially in places like South Florida, a region just above sea level that weathers the hurricane season year after year.
The hurricane season spans from June 1 through November 30. As we’ve already had the first named storm within the first two weeks of the season, the American Red Cross encourages residents in South Florida to take safety steps now. Keep in mind that being prepared for the hurricane season in South Florida is essential for those who live along coastal areas and hundreds of miles inland and preparing ahead of time is the best way to ensure that you and your loved ones are safe in the event of a hurricane.
During this time of year, residents of South Florida should prepare by reviewing Red Cross recommended hurricane safety tips, which outline what to do before, during and after a hurricane.
Before: Plan and prepare
There are several ways to prepare beforehand. All families and households should take safety steps, such as creating an evacuation plan, building an emergency kit and putting copies of important documents in a safe place.
In years past, when storms make landfall, many people rush to purchase gas, groceries, medication and other supplies. But don’t wait until there is an emergency. Think about all the essentials you, your family and your pets will need. Then, stock up on food, water, flashlights and batteries now. Consider what items you will need if the power goes out in your neighborhood or if you are advised to evacuate.
During: Don’t wait – evacuate
Being prepared for what to do during a hurricane is crucial. Having an evacuation plan laid out ahead of time means that you’ll know exactly what to do if or when a hurricane hits.
Know where to go and how to get there. Avoid any flooded roads or bridges. Furthermore, you and your loved ones should establish a meeting place in case you are not together when the storm lands. Do your best to remain calm, even if some unknowns arise.
Remind yourself during a storm that hurricane season happens every year in South Florida. Your local community officials along with the South Florida Red Cross will work to ensure that you and your families are safe.
After: Stay vigilant
Once officials declare that it is safe for residents to return to their homes, it is still important to be equipped with information about what to do and what not to do. For example, stay informed about the local community response plan and stay alert for extended rainfall that could cause additional flooding. Do not wade into flood waters, which could contain dangerous debris like broken glass, sewage and downed powerlines. Take photos of any damage to your home and belongings for insurance purposes and do not use any electrical equipment if it is wet or if you’re standing in water. Remember to wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and boots, and be cautious when cleaning up. It’s equally important to note that you should not use water that could be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food or make ice.
Join the Red Cross
The American Red Cross has an increasing need for volunteers to respond to disasters like hurricanes. Representing 90% of the workforce, volunteers are essential to carrying out the mission of the Red Cross. Volunteers provide shelter, comfort, hot meals, health services and recovery support to families affected by disasters.
This hurricane season, the South Florida Red Cross calls on community members to join us in providing relief and hope to our neighbors. The most-needed disaster positions include supporting shelters and providing health services.
· SHELTER SUPPORT: Help at a shelter during a large disaster by welcoming and registering residents, serving meals, setting up cots, distributing blankets and personal hygiene kits, and providing information and other assistance to people in need.
· HEALTH SERVICES: We also need volunteers who can use their professional skills as a licensed health care provider to deliver hands-on support, including care and education to people staying at a shelter during a large disaster. Qualified licenses include RN, LPN, LVN, EMT, Paramedic, MD, DO, PA, NP and APRN.
Visit redcross.org/SFLvolunteer to view available opportunities and become a volunteer today.
Written by Cynthia Arata, American Red Cross Public Affairs