Hurricanes can result in the greatest destruction of property and life out of any weather-related disasters. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which records storm statistics, stated that hurricanes alone were responsible for $2.155 trillion in damage costs between 1980 and 2021. During 2005 (Hurricane Katrina), 2012 (Hurricane Sandy), 2017 (a busy season with Hurricanes Irma, Harvey and Maria among them) and 2018 (Hurricane Florence), some of the worst series of storms in recorded history pummeled the coastlines of the United States. The 2022 season in the Atlantic Ocean resulted in the highest price damage tally on record, with Hurricane Ian the third costliest storm — and the most expensive in Florida’s history — with damages at $113.1 billion. It was also the deadliest hurricane since 1935 to impact Florida. Typically, tens of thousands of people are evacuated during these storms; and many returned to find their homes demolished. Each year from June through December, hurricanes can have a very real impact on your life, even if you live miles inland. In the Tampa area alone during Hurricane Ian, approximately 300,000 people were mandatorily evacuated from their homes.
Preparing before a hurricane can make all the difference in recovering after a storm. Every household has stacks of important papers that are difficult — in some cases virtually impossible — to replace. Insurance policies, medical records, birth certificates, legal documents, passports, computer data, automobile and home ownership documents are just a few examples of papers that must be protected during a hurricane. Jewelry, medications and other valuable items also require waterproof, secure protection.
When a hurricane threatens your area, it is important to prepare well in advance. To safeguard important items including electronics, products like Gator Cases are durable and portable. Choose from cases at CableOrganizer® to protect your racks, screens, laptops, and other equipment that can get damaged by threats like movement and water.
As the storm approaches, it is not uncommon to experience power outages. After the storm passes, you may find electricity is not available for hours, days or even weeks. Living without electric power is challenging, but if you are prepared with a generator, you don't have to suffer through dark nights without refrigeration for your food supplies. Make sure if you have a generator to also keep the compatible engine oil, fuel stabilizer, as well as a spare air filter and spark plug on hand, if needed for your generator. Make sure to keep your generator protected with a cover when it’s not in use. You will also need to be sure you have extension cords on hand and CableOrganizer® has weather-resistant outdoor extension cords up to 100 feet in length. These neon cords are easier to see in stormy conditions, have a clear molded indicator light so you know when the power is connected.
When using a power generator, be sure to follow the safety guidelines provided by the generator manufacturer, as the generator engine's fumes must be allowed to vent safely away from your home and your family to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
