Lots of folks rightfully wondering how individual preparations and decisions this #Hurricane Season will be affected by #COVID19. Here's what I tell friends and family.
First, if you don't have flood insurance, consider getting it. You don't have to live in the obligatory 100-year flood zone to be flood prone. If you're insured, but recently laid off or furloughed, find out if your agent offers an extended grace period to avoid coverage lapse.
Second, find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone. With few exceptions, evacuations are storm-surge (not wind-) driven. If you live in a storm surge (evacuation) zone, find the shortest distance from you to a safe shelter. If you need to evacuate, limit the distance.
And what about evacuation shelters? Give yourself extra time to get to those shelters in operation. If medical screenings are required, it may delay entry. Social distancing rules may also limit usual shelter capacity. Plan to arrive early.
Third, know where you're headed. If you live in an evacuation zone, coordinate your plans today, especially with friends/family. If possible, find safe shelter where it's easier to maintain social distancing without exposing high risk populations (immunocompromised, older, etc.).
Fourth, plan to add disinfectant supplies to your hurricane supply kit. If you evacuate to a community shelter, you'll want to routinely wipe down or disinfect your belongings.
Don't forget to have a plan for your pets. For public health reasons, many shelters don't allow pets. Whether a shelter allows pets will be shelter-specific. If you plan to evacuate to a hotel, line up a pet friendly hotel. Otherwise look for open pet boarding near your shelter.
Last but not least, listen to your local government and emergency management officials for the latest hurricane season guidance. Stay-at-home orders and public health recommendations will evolve. Start local for the latest info on shelters and evacuations.
For disaster planning information from the federal government, including updated recommendations for #COVID19, see http://ready.gov  @Readygov
You can follow @MichaelRLowry.
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