Whether you live in an apartment building or not, it’s important to know what steps you should take before and during hurricanes. It’s also helpful to know what your insurance covers in case of a disaster.
Getting ready for a hurricane means doing your part, but it also depends on others and the management of the apartment community. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help make you and your family safer during hurricanes.
The Height of Your Apartment
A high-rise apartment is not necessarily the safest place to be during a hurricane. While a well-engineered building can handle the forces of nature, the truth is that flooding and structural damage are more likely in these types of structures than in their lower-story counterparts. The most important step is to stay informed and be prepared. This includes a good supply of water for emergencies, the best evacuation route and some form of backup power. Also, be sure to board up your windows and secure any outdoor furniture or appliances. The best way to survive the next hurricane is by being proactive and prepared.
The Floor You Live On
If you’re looking for a safe place to stay during a hurricane, the floor that you live on is one of the most important factors. Generally, you want to take cover in a small interior room, such as an inner bedroom, bathroom, hallway or closet, during periods of high wind. This will minimize the potential for flying debris to hit you and cause injury or death.
The type of apartment you live in and the standards put into place in your building are other determining factors when it comes to your safety during a hurricane. Generally, living on the top floors of an apartment building will be safer than lower-level apartments. However, this depends on the type of hurricane you’re facing and how severe it is predicted to be.
The Type of Apartment
If you live in an apartment, you know how important it is to stay safe during hurricanes. During the summer, many cities around the world experience tropical storms and hurricanes, which can be dangerous to your safety and property.
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to protect yourself from damage or loss during a hurricane. By taking the time to prep your apartment and follow a few simple safety tips, you can rest easy knowing that your home will be safe during a disaster.
The first thing to consider is the type of apartment you live in. This will affect your safety during hurricanes, and it can also impact whether you need to evacuate your home.
You will want to make sure your apartment is structurally sound and can withstand winds of up to 90 miles per hour. In addition, you should take steps to shelter-in-place if there’s a threat of flooding.
For the best safety, you should stay in an interior bedroom, bathroom, hall or closet that’s not on a floor with windows. This is typically the lowest level of an apartment building, and it will be the safest spot for you to be during a hurricane.
Once you’re safely in your apartment, try to depressurize it by closing the interior doors and keeping them closed as much as possible. This can help deflect any pressure on the roof and reduce your chances of damage from a broken window or door during a hurricane.
Another good idea is to store your 10 days’ worth of emergency supplies, like bottled water, batteries and flashlights. Depending on the size of your apartment, this can be difficult, but it’s worth it to be prepared in the event that you need to leave.
Finally, be sure to take a binder with any important documents that need to be kept, such as birth certificates and passports. You should also include a copy of your renter’s insurance policy, health insurance and credit cards.
It’s also a good idea to stock up on food and drinks, since most people won’t be able to access grocery stores after a hurricane has hit. You should also be sure to have a backup supply of prescription medications and any other medical necessities that may become difficult to obtain during a hurricane.
The Standards Put Into Place in Your Building
The best way to answer the question, “are my apartments safe in a hurricane?” is to ask yourself what are you doing inside of it. The answer is that you haven’t, thanks to a lack of planning and a lack of oversight. The good news is, if you follow the proper steps, you can have the best time of your life in a safe and secure environment. The following tips will make your apartment experience a breeze: First, find a landlord with a good reputation. Second, be sure to read the contract. Third, keep in mind that a lease is an agreement for an extended period of time. Finally, be sure to have your credit card ready at all times.