Mother Nature Won’t Pause for Coronavirus: Preparing for Hurricane Season 2020
Our attention has naturally been focused on the coronavirus crisis. So, it seems that hurricane season 2020 snuck up on us. Unfortunately, Mother Nature won’t necessarily give us a break just because we have been dealing with the coronavirus. As a matter of fact, experts predict hurricane season 2020 could be particularly brutal. And, regardless of the overall season, it only takes one storm affecting our area to make for a personally nightmarish hurricane season in 2020. This is not meant to bring more tough news, but to remind everyone to make preparations. Fortunately, with hurricanes, we can plan ahead and mitigate much of the risk.
The 2020 Hurricane Season officially begins on June 1st. Now is the time to begin planning. We will share some of the reasons preparation for hurricane season will be a bit different in 2020, thanks to the impacts of COVID-19. However, many of the preparation steps will be the same as in any year. Our team will share resources so you and your family can be prepared.
What is different about preparing for hurricane season 2020?
Supplies
It will likely take longer and be more difficult to procure your hurricane supplies. Items like paper towels, toilet paper, hand sanitizers and disinfectants have been in short supply. Most of us won’t have the luxury of running out one day and picking up everything we need. And, of course, shopping itself takes special effort and precautions nowadays, especially for our vulnerable citizens.
The Florida 2020 Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday runs Friday, May 29th through Thursday, June 4th. Qualifying items related to disaster prep will be tax exempt on these days. More information will be coming soon and we will update that here. However, as mentioned above, you may not want to wait in light of shortages and shopping challenges. It may only be worthwhile for bigger ticket items like portable generators.
We always recommend elders and those with health conditions get a two-week supply of medications for hurricane season. They should also evaluate any medical equipment and management needs. While this advice is the same anytime, preparing may take a bit more creativity with limitations in medical appointments and access. Fortunately, this can all be accomplished with telehealth and various resources. Our team is here to assist you in getting what you need.
Evacuation Options and Emergency Response
You may face more limited evacuation options and alternatives because of coronavirus precautions. Right now, travel and mobility are restricted. For high-risk individuals, crowded shelters rarely make sense except as a last resort. Now, this is even more true.
For the last few years, Florida hurricane experts have been leaning toward more of a “shelter in place” (and prepare to do so safely) model anyway. But, they will likely be moving more strongly to this advice in light of the coronavirus. Additionally, officials are exploring options such as hotels for emergency shelters instead of schools where people are crowded together. The state is looking at creative solutions, such as using ride-sharing services rather than buses for evacuations. Like everything else, disaster preparedness must adapt to the “new normal”.
Often, the families we work with decide that the best option is to evacuate elderly loved ones to their homes during a hurricane. When exploring this possibility, it is vital to be prepared for what it means to have your loved one living with you. Even if they are out of the risky zone for hurricanes, the change of routine and moving require careful planning. You have to set up the right environment for them and have what they need.
Now you have added factors to consider with looking at minimizing exposure and balancing the needs of multiple family members who may be doing work and school from home also. Just as we have been helping families who have thought about moving parents home from care facilities during coronavirus, we can help you evaluate this option and prepare.
Follow EasyLiving’s Facebook page to be sure you get our latest updates about Florida Hurricane Season 2020, from the tax holiday to changes in state recommendations and resources.
Planning for Hurricane Season 2020: You Always Need The Basics
No matter which hurricane season, you always need to follow the basic procedures for planning. This is particularly necessary for elders and those with medical conditions or mobility issues, and their caregivers.
Where to start?
Schedule a hurricane planning appointment with our experts today. We can get started with a video or phone consultation to assess your needs and create a plan. Especially in light of some of the factors mentioned above, we suggest booking your appointment today to get started.
