Page 18 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2020

COAST NOTE
PREPARING FOR COASTAL STORMS
story by Tracie Sempier
Natural hazards such as tornadoes, hurricanes, oods, or high wind events can threaten both people
and property. When a natural hazard occurs, the results can be devastating. Whether you live, work, or recreate on the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast, make sure you are prepared for storm season. Here are some tips for how to prepare:
• Gather non-perishable foods and emergency supplies. Check and restock each month so that the supplies are complete, not outdated or used. Avoid rushing to a store during an emergency to gather your supplies. There will be long lines and empty shelves.
• Create an evacuation plan well ahead of time. Your plan may include sheltering in your house if it is su ciently strong and outside the evacuation zone.
If you can’t use your house, use a suitable alternative structure (a friend or relative’s house) or a shelter that is
o cially open (listen to local radio and television). Know the evacuation routes for your community.
• Know your property and
take appropriate action. Look
at where you are located. If the land oods, you should consider ood insurance. If
trees overhang your house, you should consider trimming or cutting the branches overhead which may damage your house in a storm. If the property is near a ridge, it may be especially susceptible to wind damage during a storm or hurricane.
• Strengthen your house. A house built after the early- to mid-1990s should have hurricane clips to tie the roof to the wall and strong connectors from the wall to the foundation. If your house was built before then, you can still retro t at a reasonable cost. All
•
households should consider the many options now available to protect your windows, garage, and doors. You can also strengthen your roof when it is time to re-roof.
Purchase insurance. Don’t gamble with your house. Obtain adequate insurance for hurricanes and ood insurance if you are in a ood-prone area. Take advantage of potential discounts for your hurricane insurance premiums. Coverage may vary among insurance companies so call your insurance agent to nd out about discounts that may be available.
sponsored by Clean Gulf Associates
This story is part of the Embrace
the Gulf 2020 campaign, which aims to highlight the value and vitality
of the Gulf Coast Region through daily posts. Join the movement by following the Alliance on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Gulf of Mexico Alliance
1151 Robinson St., Ocean Springs www.gulfofmexicoalliance.org Social Media @GOMAlliance
18 | July 2020
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