Hurricane Earl - Better Safe Than Sorry!

Forgot about the Dingy: c.DMKershaw

Hurricane Earl is the topic of conversation right now on the coast of New Hampshire and Maine (as it is everywhere else on the East Coast).  People are betting whether or not we will be impacted by Earl to any degree other than high surf and heavy rain. Well, as the picture to the left shows, even a strong rain can cause havoc if you are not prepared.

I took this photo at the Kittery Point Pier during a storm in 2008.  While that dingy probably wouldn't have sunk, it was sure taking a serious beating because it's owner forgot about it.  So I thought I'd share a few tips that might help to minimize damage if you are in the path of this storm or any storm.  Granted these are really just common sense tips, but helpful never the less. 

Exterior of House -
Clean out Gutters on the roof to keep driving rain from backing up and leaking down into windows and doors (while you are at it, check windows and doors for holes/cracks that could be a source for water entry).
Repair loose or faulty siding that could be ripped off during a strong storm.
Store or secure the patio furniture (tables, chairs, umbrellas. grills, garbage cans, potted plants, garden tools.)
Trim any weakened bushes or tree branches -  that if broken could take down utility lines or break windows...
-Make sure outbuilding doors and windows are securely latched.
-Check the basement to make sure windows/pet doors are closed


What about An Apartment or Condo?
Contact your Management company or landlord if you see any issues that you think need addressing beforehand (they may be unaware of potential hazards that could cause problems)

Electronics/Vehicle/Boats
You know the storm is on it's way and if it passes without issue - that is great - but humor me:
-Charge all of your electronics (cell phones, wireless cards, rechargeable batteries, laptop...) you might even want to invest in a power converter (it plugs into your car's lighter and then you can plug your electronics into it, as if you were in the house) 
-Make sure you fill your vehicles gas tank, make sure your wipers are in good working order, check the fluid levels and the air in your tires (you don't want to be worried about this at the last minute)
-Make sure your boat is secure and watertight - if you can take it out of the water great if you cannot at least make sure you double your lines and store anything below that can fly off.

If You Have To Leave in a Hurry
-Don't forget the pets - (food,water dishes, kennel)
-Make sure you have your Insurance Policy # and Agent or Claim Telephone Number with you.
-And have an Emergency To Go Kit Ready -

Put a "Go Bag" in the car ahead of time in the event you need to leave abruptly.  This should contain:  Allow 3 gallons of water for each person; Flashlights/don't forget batteries, a portable radio (smartphones are great but there's nothing better than an old fashioned portable battery operated radio).  Put an ice chest or duffel bag in the car with nonperishable foods  i.e. high-nutrition foods you don't have to refrigerate and require little or no water such as:  Ready to eat canned meats, fruits, vegetables, juices or soups. Energy foods like, trail mix, crackers, granola bars;  Comfort foods like hard candy, cookies, coffee, tea;  If you have elderly or infants don't forget any special diet foods... medications -Blanket or Sleeping Bag (we keep our camping gear ready for spontaneous trips so that would even work if you are a camper).  And if you don't have to leave at least you have something in the car if you ever break down somewhere.

Here's a great link to help you put a kit together - You can purchase one of these "emergency kits" from this link as well (I have one in my car - you never know when you might need one)    "Get A Kit" .

Chances are good (at least as of 9/2/10 at 1:00 pm ) that those of us who live at the Seacoast of NH & Southern ME won't be too "inconvenienced" by Earl, but it is "Better To Be Safe Than Sorry" they say (who said that?). 

And if you want to "Keep an EYE on Earl"

 (pun intended) here are a few links.

 FEMA -   National Weather Service (Current Watches & Warnings)  

You might find these interesting as well:

Hurricane History  (this is the National Hurricane Center site and addresses Hurricanes all over) -
Hurricane Tracker (type in a state and zip code - may have to adjust your screen)

Maine Hurricane History   The Great Hurricane of 1938  Storm Preparedness
(leave a comment if you have found some other interesting weather related sites)

Either way, it looks like Labor Day weekend is going to be filled with excitement -  Be Safe. Debbie Mae.