Hurricane Safety: Protecting Your Home, Business and Family Before the Storm
Living in Florida means hurricane preparedness is a part of life. While we can’t control the path or strength of a storm, we can take steps to protect our families, homes, businesses and property before severe weather arrives.
At Crime Prevention Security Systems (CPSS), we’ve been protecting Florida homes and businesses for more than 50 years. As a storm approaches, a little preparation can make a significant difference.
Prepare Before the Storm
Don’t wait until a hurricane warning is issued to begin preparing. Review your family’s emergency plan, know your evacuation zone and make sure everyone understands where to go and how you’ll communicate if you become separated.
Keep an emergency supply kit stocked with essentials such as water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, medications, first-aid supplies, portable chargers and important documents.
If local officials issue an evacuation order, follow their instructions. Property can be replaced. People can’t.
Secure Your Property
Before severe weather arrives, bring outdoor furniture, grills, decorations and other loose objects inside. Trim vulnerable branches when it’s safe to do so and make sure doors, windows and other openings are properly secured.
Businesses should also secure exterior equipment, signage and other objects that could become hazards during high winds.
Prepare for Power and Internet Outages
Hurricanes frequently cause power, cellular and internet interruptions. Charge phones, tablets, backup batteries and other essential devices before the storm.
If your security system includes battery backup, make sure it is functioning properly. Avoid making unnecessary changes to your security equipment immediately before a storm.
If you have a portable generator, never operate it inside your home, garage or other enclosed area. Generators produce carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that can be deadly.
Use Your Security System as Part of Your Hurricane Plan
A professionally installed security system can provide valuable information before, during and after severe weather.
Depending on your system and services, cameras and smart security technology may allow you to check on your property remotely, receive alerts and monitor important activity while you’re away.
This can be particularly valuable if you’ve evacuated and want additional awareness of what’s happening at your home or business.
Don’t Forget About Water Damage
Wind isn’t the only threat associated with hurricanes. Heavy rain, roof damage and flooding can result in significant water damage.
Water sensors placed in vulnerable areas can provide early notification of unwanted water, potentially giving you an opportunity to respond before a small problem becomes a much larger one.
Consider areas near water heaters, washing machines, sinks, HVAC equipment and other locations where water intrusion could occur.
After the Storm
Even after the weather clears, hazards can remain.
Stay away from downed power lines and standing water near electrical equipment. Be cautious around damaged structures, fallen trees and debris. If you’ve evacuated, wait until local authorities indicate that it’s safe to return.
When you arrive home or at your business, inspect the property carefully and document any damage before beginning cleanup.
We’re Here to Help Florida Prepare
For more than 50 years, Crime Prevention Security Systems has helped protect homes and businesses throughout Florida.
Hurricane preparedness isn’t just about boarding windows and stocking supplies. It’s about having a plan, protecting the people you care about and making sure your security systems are ready when you need them.
If you’d like to learn more about security cameras, interactive security, water detection, fire protection or other solutions that can help protect your property year-round, contact CPSS at 800-949-1799.
Prepare early. Stay informed. Stay safe.
