Living in Crystal Beach has its perks. From gorgeous waters to amazing local spots, we are blessed to live in such a beautiful community! One thing we have to keep in mind is how frequently we experience weather changes, and how we can make sure our homes are protected in case that happens. Hurricane season usually lasts from June 1st to November 30th so we want to be prepared.
1 - Securing the Home Before a Disaster
In the event that you know you’re about to experience more inclement weather, here are some precautions to take before:
- Keep your windows and doors closed and locked - Doing this seals them and keeps the water out. Our Impact windows are standard on all of our new builds and don’t need plywood on top but it’s never a bad idea to put it up if you have time. in the case that you don’t have Impact Windows, add plywood on top to keep it secure. Sealing your doors and windows also keeps the wind from blowing things around inside.
- Reinforce your roof - Consider keeping a few tarps around the house in case you lose some shingles during the high winds. This will allow you to minimize the internal damage if this happens. Tarps are typically one of the first things to go at the local hardware stores after a storm.
- Secure everything outside (if you can) - Loose items can blow away with winds at 60-70 MPH, and cause more damage to the outside of your house so tie down or bring in your patio furniture, planter pots, umbrellas, string lights, yard decor, etc.
- Ensure you have backup power - in the event that your home loses power, get your generator ready and make sure you have gas, diesel or propane filled and ready to go.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs - Cut off loose and dead foliage so it doesn’t fly around as much.
- Turn off utilities - Do this if local authorities recommend it.
- Automobiles - Make sure all vehicles are gassed up, tires have adequate air pressure, and you have an emergency bag packed with extra sets of clothes.
2 - Know Your Evacuation Routes
If you decide to evacuate, TX Dot is a great resource to follow. They have maps of every route in the area and explain what to do when there is overflow.
Here is the link for all Houston/Harris evacuation routes
Here is a link for all Beaumont/Brownsville evacuation routes
3 - Have a Survival Kit Ready
Having a survival kit in any home is crucial, but here are our select items that are great to have in an area like Crystal Beach.
- Fresh Water Filter System - Having fresh water is crucial to survival so making sure that you have access to clean water is necessary. Make sure you know where the local emergency stations are located.
- Emergency Food - As mentioned above, you’ll need to have a supply of food for you and your family to last a couple of weeks. Having non-perishable and high-energy food like protein bars or canned food won't be affected by the environment.
- Multi-Tool - Having a multi-tool will help you when you need it the most. From cutting to preparing food, this will be handy.
- Lighting - Having a camping lantern, flashlights or even flameless candles will help you when the power goes out.
- Navigation Tools - In the event that you need to navigate anywhere, having things like a map and compass will help.
- Weather Appropriate Clothes - Make sure that you have clothing that will keep you warm and cool for when the weather changes.
- Communication Device - Having a walkie or other form of communication will help when your mobile device loses a charge.
- Cash - Have some bills in case of emergencies.
- Sanitation Supplies - Personal hygiene items are important to have.
- Life Vest - It is always crucial to have one, especially in coastal areas.
4 - Get Familiar with a Drill
Keeping everyone calm is the most important so practicing this will ease the stress in case something does actually happen. Children typically respond well to exercises like this. Remember, a plan is only as effective when everyone is familiar with what to expect. Working as a team will ensure the safest outcome.
5 - Have a Family Emergency Plan
Making sure that you and your family have a plan is important so that you are all on the same page. Families work best when everyone does their part, and doing this means you will get the best results. Here are some of our tips when it comes to putting one together:
Have important documents ready - This can help in an emergency and making sure that you and your family are all up to date. Think, birth certificates, Social Security cards, Driver’s Licenses, House Deeds, medical emergency contacts, current medication prescriptions, etc.
Communication plan - Make sure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to check-ins, having “buddies”, designating out-of-state contact, and setting up a group messaging system.
Know your evacuation plan - Make sure that you know what you are going to do in the event of an evacuation. This includes knowing what routes to take, what to pack for the road, and who is responsible for what.
Stay informed - Stay up to date with local news and follow official instructions from your local authorities. Bolivarpeninsulatexas.com is a great website to keep up with local news during storms. They typically have cameras around the peninsula that can give you updated videos of different areas.
Take the time to make considerations for your home, your family, and yourself during this hurricane season to ensure the safety of your home and your family.
Working with a skilled and experienced professional who understands the area and how it changes allows you to have a smooth contracting experience in Crystal Beach. At Prestige, we only use high-quality materials and provide expert installations so that the integrity of your home lasts. To work with Landon, give us a call today at (409) 313-3383 or email Landon directly at landon@prestigecustombuilders.net.