In Dorian's cone...Preparing for a Storm

​Although it is much too early to accurately determine Dorian’s path, South Florida is currently in the cone for Hurricane Dorian.  It is not too early, however, to begin some basic preparation in case we are impacted.
 
There are a few items regarding hurricane preparation in a condominium that your Executive Committee wants you to be aware of:

• All units must remove all items from their balconies.
• Close and lock all windows and balcony doors.
• Fill your bathtub with water for flushing and washing.  Fill kitchen containers with water for drinking.
• Ensure you have a flashlight for each person.
• Medications that require refrigeration may be brought to the clubhouse, which has a generator, if your building loses power.  ONLY refrigerated medication may be placed in the clubhouse refrigerator – anything else will be thrown out.  Ensure your name and building/unit number is clearly labeled on the container.
• Have tenants in your unit?  Forward this email to them!

 
Following is a basic checklist from Broward County of what you should do before a storm. 
 
Before the Event

• Before the storm, take photos (date and time stamped) of your unit.
• Complete an inventory of your valuable possessions. Your inventory will help with insurance claims and tax deductions for losses.
• Be sure that you carry all necessary insurance. Many renters and condominium owners don't carry interior insurance, and those that do, don't always carry enough, or even the right kind of coverage.
• Make sure your important papers, including key contact information, are stored in a waterproof container in the event there is water damage.
• Residents of condominiums located within an ordered evacuation zone must evacuate, either to another location of their choice or to a shelter. No one should remain in the building.
• If you live on a higher floor or have difficulty in getting around, make sure you have enough food and water for at least five days. The elevator may be shut down or inoperable, prohibiting you from leaving the building for a few days.  All others should have enough supplies for at least three days.
• Residents of condominiums located within areas not ordered to evacuate should select a building coordinator who has knowledge of hurricane preparedness, and will lead residents on how to prepare for the storm.
• Close and lock all windows and sliding glass doors.
• Draw all shades. Close all blinds and drapes.
• Place folded towels on window sills and inside the bottom of doors leading outside to absorb any leaking water.
• Wedge patio doors shut to prevent them from being blown off.
• Close shutters tightly against the wall to prevent them from being blown off.
• Remove all loose items from terrace or patio (hanging plants, lawn chairs, etc.) Do not place outdoor furniture in the swimming pool as it could be damaged while in the pool or cause damage if blown out of the pool by high wind.
• Remove fragile objects from wall shelves. Store in closet and off the floor to safeguard from storm vibrations.
• Locate relative "safe zones" in the apartment. Closets, hallways, bathrooms and kitchens are possibilities. Be sure you can access water, batteries, food, etc. from here during the storm.
• Locate the exit stairway nearest to you and count the number of steps from your door to the exit (in case lights are out in an interior hallway).
• Check and close all faucets, unplug electrical items from wall outlets and disconnect television antennas from the sets.
• Determine a location outside of the building for members of your family to meet in the event you are asked to evacuate.
• If you need assistance: take advantage of Broward County’s Vulnerable Population Registry.  It allows those who are disabled, frail or have health issues to register in advance by calling the Broward County Call Center at 954-831-4000 or visit http://www.broward.org/Hurricane/Registry/Pages/default.aspx. 
• Remember to text others of your safety – stay off the cell phones to allow for emergency calls to go through.  During Hurricane Wilma, many people were chatting on their cell phones as something to do, blocking the cell phone system so that people with true emergencies had trouble reaching emergency services.