It is highly likely for our area to be affected by a hurricane or tropical storm during this season. In the event of a hurricane or tropical storm warning, we strongly advise you to take necessary measures for your safety and for the protection of the property you are currently renting. By taking care of the property, you ensure that you will have a secure and dry place to reside in once the storms dissipate. Here are the recommended preparations:
If we have received a Hurricane Warning (that is a hurricane is expected within the next 36 hours):
- If there are shutters included with the property, it’s now time to ensure they are properly secured in place
- Relocate or cover all furniture away from the windows, preferably in rooms that are less susceptible to potential damage.
- Bring all garbage receptacles, garden hoses (disconnected from hose bib), outdoor patio plants, pots, chairs, tables, furniture, and pool cleaning equipment inside. Also, remove yard flags, decorations, and other items from patios, porches, and yards, as they can become projectiles in strong winds. Don’t forget to include holiday decorations as well. Let’s stay safe and prepared!
- If you happen to be in a coastal area, considering the risks of flooding, you must decide whether you should evacuate and make your way to the closest shelter facility.
- Living on the top floor of a condo or apartment building might require you to evacuate in case the roof is blown off.
- If there is a bathtub, barrel, or any other container fill it with water. This water could become your only source for bathing or flushing toilets during a power outage that lasts for several days.
- Instead of taping windows, consider having boards put up. Please note that the cost of this would be your responsibility.
- If you have a garage available, please make sure to use it to protect all vehicles on the property, if possible. This is a great way to keep your vehicles safe and secure.
- Reinvent ways to prevent water accumulation and reduce mosquito activity by adding a capful of bleach and cover the container.
- To minimize damage to appliances or electronic devices, it is recommended that you disconnect plugs or turn off the breaker when experiencing power surges or loss of power.
- Make sure to firmly close the shed doors or storage cabinets for optimum security.
HoShing Realtors & Associates will do our part in assisting with the necessary preparations.
If you decide to vacate your premises, please notify our office in writing as promptly as possible to ensure that we have a record of your departure and your up-to-date contact details. Be sure to record vital personal and contact information, prepare an emergency kit, assemble your loved ones and pets, and prioritize your personal security.
If you choose to ride out any severe weather event at home, make sure you have an ample supply of portable water, a portable radio, flashlights, batteries (for the radio and flashlight), a full tank of gasoline in your vehicle, personal or legal documents stored in waterproof bags, essential medical supplies, necessary medications, toiletries, diapers, and a sufficient amount of pre-cooked canned food – remember to bring a can opener! Additionally, it would be beneficial to have rolls of plastic, large plastic bags, fully charged cellular phones, tire repair kits, insect repellent, and sunscreen for after the storm, as well as extra candles and clean laundry. Camping equipment and coolers filled with ice can also be helpful. In the event that there is a prolonged power outage, it may be wise to have extra cash on hand, as credit cards will not function without electricity.
Once the storm has subsided, kindly inform HoShing Realtors & Associates in the event of any weather-related impairments. It would be greatly appreciated if you could furnish us with visual evidence in the form of photographs pertaining to the aforementioned damages.
If you have any questions about securing the property or need help in making a decision about whether to stay or go to a shelter, please view Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) website at https://www.odpem.org.jm/shelters/
Should you have any questions please contact us at HoShing Realtors & Associates, 876-356-8665.
