If you've lived in Florida for any amount of time, you probably understand the threat of hurricanes. Hurricane season can run anywhere from the beginning of June until the end of November. If you live in apartments in Gainesville, you probably realize that these seasons can vary from year to year. One year you could have no threat at all, while the next you are bombarded with named storms. As a resident of the Sunshine State, it is very important for you to realize the dangers of these powerful storms and to be prepared.
Gainesville apartments may be inland and not on the coast of Florida, but their residents are still not safe from the torrential downpours, flooding and strong winds a hurricane brings. The first step to understand hurricane preparedness is to arm yourself with an awesome hurricane supply kit. First and foremost is water. You will need to have a few packs of water on hand in the event that your water source is compromised by the storm. Bottled drinking water can be stored for a very long time, so it never hurts to pick up a pack or two while shopping at your local Publix. Having water to flush your toilet or wash items is very important too. One trick is to fill up your bathtub the day or evening before the hurricane hits.
Apartments in Gainesville will also need to include food in their hurricane supply kits. This can include any non-perishable foods, like canned goods. These may come in handy if your electricity is out for an undetermined amount of time and you have no way to cook dinner. Keep in mind, if the storm is very bad and a curfew is enforced, you won't even be able to get out to the grocery store or local restaurants. They will most likely be closed anyway! If you have a cat or a dog, make sure you stock up on their food too. One helpful tip to avoid long lines and food shortages before the threat of a storm: buy these items way in advance. If you wait until a couple of days before the hurricane hits, you may find that all of the shelves are empty or that the lines are extremely long.
Besides water and food, you will also want to make sure you have plenty of flashlights, batteries and candles. You will need these light sources in case the lights go out in Gainesville apartments. Remember to practice ultimately safety around candles. Never leave one unattended in a room. In the event that your electricity goes out for an extended amount of time, you will also want to make sure all of your portable electronics are charged. Make sure to fully charge your cell phone the day before the storm hits. You may even consider purchasing a portable battery pack. This will come in handy when you need to contact your family and friends during the aftermath.
Residents in apartments in Gainesville can also do other things besides stocking up on hurricane supplies to help alleviate some of the stress that comes with these storms. The day before the hurricane, make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas, just in case gas stations are down after the storm. If you have a patio or balcony, make sure you bring in any furniture or items that may blow away or get damaged. Do your research and understand where the flood zones are in your area. And what is probably the most important bit of information during hurricane season: if you are put under mandatory evacuation – GET OUT! Law enforcement and government officials do not mess around with these proclamations. If you even have a little doubt about your safety, it is best to pack up and leave for the duration of the storm. All of your things are replaceable – you are not! Keep in mind that many people will have the same idea, so the fastest way north out of Gainesville, Interstate 75, may be a little heavy on traffic. You may want to plan in advance if you are going to evacuate.