HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS: OWNER S EDITION Emergency Procedures. Emerald Waters Beachside

Transcription

1 HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS: OWNER S EDITION Emergency Procedures Emerald Waters Beachside

2 HURRICANE PREPARATIONS & EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Emerald Waters Beachside Condominium1952 Scenic Gulf Drive, Miramar Beach, FL phone fax 1

3 Table of Contents Introduction... 3 Hurricane watch vs. warning 2012 Hurricane Names Protect Your Investment... 5 Homeowner s Insurance Flood Coverage Home Hazard Assessment Inventory Disaster Emergency Plan... 8 Supply Kit Special Needs Important Documents Preparing Your Home Owner Recommendations Evacuation Tools

4 511 Emergency Information Local Broadcast Systems Shelters Evacuation Routes After the Storm Returning to the Local Area Assessing Home Damage Water Activity Tips Cleanup Activity Appendix Emergency Contact Information Securing Your Boat Family Emergency Plan Cards

5 Chapter 1 Introduction T he Hurricane Preparedness and Emergency Procedures established for Emerald Waters Beachside are designed to protect and prepare the Association for minimized damaged in the event of a storm. Hurricanes are dangerous and not to be taken lightly. We ask that you take the time to read the information provided and pass it on to visiting friends and family, your Rental Company and tenants. Hurricanes A hurricane is a violent area of low pressure forming in the tropical Atlantic Ocean from June to November. (August and September are peak months.) Hurricanes have winds of 75 miles per hour or more and are accompanied by torrential rains and along coastal areas a storm surge. Hurricanes pose a risk because powerful and intense winds and rain can: Damage or destroy structures. Lift and move unstable structures and objects. Damage utility lines. Be accompanied by tornadoes. Cause coastal erosion. Cause floods. Threaten lives. 4

6 Hurricane Classifications are: Category Barometric Pressure (Inches) Windspeed (Miles Per Hour) Storm Surge (Feet) I - Minimal Above II - Moderate III - Extensive IV - Extreme V - Catastrophic Less Than More Than 155 More than 18 Hurricane Watch vs. Warning The Emergency Management Center for our local area monitors the weather forecast and subsequent possibility of landfall. In the event that it becomes necessary they will order either a Hurricane Watch or Warning for our area. A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are possible within the specified coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane watch is issued 48 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds. A Hurricane Warning means that hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or higher) are expected somewhere within the specified coastal area. Because hurricane preparedness activities become difficult once winds reach tropical storm force, the hurricane warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds. Many people do not realize the threat that hurricanes can present even if they live in hurricane-prone areas because they have not experienced a major hurricane. In the following chapters we will discuss preparations that should be made BEFORE a hurricane occurs Hurricane Names Alberto Beryl Chris Debby Ernesto Florence Gordon Helene Isaac Joyce Kirk Leslie Michael Nadine Oscar Patty Rafael Sandy Tony Valerie William 5

7 Chapter 2 Protect Your Investment Homeowner s Insurance Every year check over your insurance policy to ensure that you have adequate coverage. Even though your Association has a Master Insurance policy, as a homeowner, it is your responsibility to insure your unit and all personal property therein. In the insurance world there is a special policy available specifically for condominium and co-op owners entitled HO-6. HO-6 policies are designed to protect your personal property from losses caused by perils named in the policy such as fire, lightning, storm, explosion, riot, aircraft, smoke, vandalism, theft, broken glass, and volcanic eruption. During the 2003 session, the Florida legislature clarified what the unit owner is responsible for with regards to property insurance: all floor, wall, and ceiling coverings electrical fixtures, appliances, air conditioner or heating equipment, water heaters, water filters built-in cabinets and countertops window treatments, including curtains, drapes, blinds, hardware, and similar window treatment components The unit owner is also responsible for improvements and betterments including upgrades to the original appliances, cabinetry, millwork, flooring, fixtures, etc. The HO-6 policies also provide liability coverage similar to that found in a standard homeowner s policy. This coverage is very important if you are found responsible for personal injury or property damage to another person. Flood Coverage I n addition to your homeowner s policy, it is important to ensure that you have adequate flood coverage as this may not be covered in your standard policy. You might not think that you need flood coverage because you are not in a flood zone but before you make that decision did you know: 6

8 You don't need to live near water to be flooded. Floods are caused by storms, hurricanes, and water backup due to inadequate or overloaded drainage systems, etc. You need coverage even if you live on the 10 th floor. No, you re not going to get any actual flooding damage in your unit, but what happens in the bottom floor sustain damage great enough to cause structural damage? You can t get to the 10 th floor unless all floors under you are sound. (If you don t believe this can happen check out the web for the condos in the Pensacola, Gulf Breeze, Biloxi and surrounding areas that were faced with this same situation) There is usually a 30-day waiting period before the coverage goes into effect. Plan ahead so you're not caught without flood insurance when a flood threatens your home or business. Federal disaster assistance is not the answer. Federal disaster assistance is only available if the President declares a disaster. More than 90 percent of all disasters in the United States are not Presidentially declared. Home Hazard Assessment During a disaster, ordinary objects in your home can cause damage or injury. Any object that can move, fall, break or cause a fire is considered a hazard. At least once a year inspect your home to spot and fix any potential hazards you might find lurking. Check for heavy and/or breakable objects on high shelves of bookcases or cabinets; dressers, headboards, etc. and move them to a lower location in the event of an impending storm. Identify mirrors and/or heavily framed pictures located above beds, couches, etc. and move them to a lower location in the event of an impending storm. Identify top-heavy furniture and/or free standing furniture that could fall over such as bookcases, china cabinets, shelf units, etc. and secure them to wall studs as necessary. Identify all electronic devices, small appliances and other types of equipment that may slide off their cabinet or counter tops during a disaster. Secure or move these items to another located in the event of an impending storm. Move hanging plants to another location. Identify poisons, toxics, or other solvents that may be in breakable containers and/or may be in dangerous locations. Move them to another location if necessary but be sure to keep them away from all water and food storage as well as out of the reach of children and pets. 7

9 Check your water heater to ensure that it is securely anchored to wall studs within a nylon strapping as necessary. Inventory Take a complete inventory of the items in your home. Be sure to include serial numbers where necessary as well as photographs to help substantiate any potential loss claims. If you need assistance creating a household inventory, visit Steps for completing a home inventory include: Record the location of the originals of all important financial and family documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, wills, deeds, tax returns, insurance policies, and stock and bond certificates. Keep the originals in a safe place such as a bank deposit box and store copies elsewhere. Make a visual or written record of your possessions. If you don t own a camera or videotaping equipment, buy an inventory booklet and fill it out, make a simple list on notebook paper or use the website above to create an online version. Go from room to room. Describe each item, when you bought it, and how much it cost. If you re photographing or videotaping, have someone open closet doors and hold up items. Record model and serial numbers where applicable. Include less expensive items, such as bath towels and clothes. Their costs add up if you have to replace them. Be sure you include items in your owner s storage area if you have one. Note the quality of building materials, particularly for such furnishings as oak doors or expensive plumbing fixtures. If you reside in an HOA Community photograph the exterior of your home. Include the landscaping. Make special note of any improvements. Photograph cars, boats, and recreational vehicles. Make copies of receipts and canceled checks for more valuable items. Get professional appraisals of jewelry, collectibles, artwork, or other items that are difficult to value. Update the appraisals every two to three years. 8

10 Chapter 3 Disaster Emergency Plan Disasters can happen without warning giving us no time to gather the supplies we may need in order to survive. B e sure to prepare or update your family s disaster plan and supply kit including items needed for family members with special needs as well as your pets. If you need assistance creating an emergency plan visit the Weather Channel s website at for assistance. Listed below are items recommended by the American Red Cross Society to include in your disaster supply kit. Place items in a sturdy, air-tight container. Water Have one gallon of water per person per day (2 quarts for drinking and 2 quart for cooking). If you don't have the storage available purchase collapsible water containers and fill when they are needed. One gallon of water per person per day, for drinking and sanitation. Children, nursing mothers, and sick people may need more water. If you live in a warm weather climate more water may be necessary. Store water tightly in clean plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person. Food Store non-perishable foods- canned meats, vegetables, and fruits. Store canned juices, milk or soup Sugar, salt, pepper Energy foods- peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola bars, trail mix 9

11 Vitamins Infant, elderly or special diet foods Comfort food- cookies, candy, cereal, lollipops, instant coffee, instant tea Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water. Pack a manual can opener and eating utensils. Avoid salty foods, as they will make you thirsty. Choose foods your family will eat. o Ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables o Protein or fruit bars o Dry cereal or granola o Peanut butter o Dried fruit o Nuts o o o o o o o Crackers Canned juices Non-perishable pasteurized milk High energy foods Vitamins Food for infants Comfort/stress foods First Aid Kit Sterile adhesive bandages (assorted sizes) 2" sterile gauze pads (4-6) 4" sterile gauze pads (4-6) Hypo allergenic adhesive tape Triangular bandages (3) 2" sterile roller bandage (3 rolls) 3" sterile roller bandage (3 rolls) Scissors Tweezers Needle Moistened towelettes Antiseptic Tongue Blades (2) Petroleum Jelly Thermometer Safety pins assorted sizes Cleansing agent/soap Sunscreen Aspirin/non-aspirin pain reliever Anti-diarrhea medicine Antacid Laxative Activated charcoal First-aid book 10

12 Tools and Supplies Disposable eating utensils Emergency Preparedness Manual Battery operated radio & batteries Flashlight & batteries Cash or travelers checks, change Non-electric can opener, utility knife Fire extinguisher (ABC type) Tent Pliers Tape Compass Matches in a waterproof container Aluminum foil Plastic storage containers Signal flare Paper, pencil Needles, thread Medicine dropper Wrench to turn off utilities Whistle Plastic sheeting Map of area Toilet paper, towelettes Soap, liquid detergent Feminine supplies personal hygiene products Plastic garbage bags Plastic bucket & lid Disinfectant Household chlorine bleach Clothing and Bedding Include at least one change of clothes per person. Sturdy shoes or work boots Rain gear Blankets or sleeping bags Hat and gloves Thermal underwear Sunglasses Special Needs Baby Formula Diapers Medication/s Bottles Powered milk 11

13 Adults Heart or high blood pressure medication Insulin Prescription drugs Denture needs Contact lenses and supplies Extra eye glasses Pets Food and Water Entertainment Games and books Leash/harness Bedding/toys Medicines Important Documents Wills, insurance, contracts, deeds, stocks, and bonds Passports, social security cards, immunization records Bank account numbers Credit account card numbers and company contact numbers Inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers Family records (birth, marriage, death certificates) Once you have all your items gathered: Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members. Keep a smaller version of the Disaster Supplies Kit in the trunk of your car. Keep items in air-tight plastic bags. Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh. Rotate your stored food every six months. Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year. Replace batteries, update clothes, etc. Ask your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications. 12

14 Chapter 4 Preparing Your Home At the approach of a storm do you know what your responsibilities for preparation include? Owner s Recommendations In the event that a storm is approaching and the Association need to be secured it is recommended that homeowners do the following: 1. Remove all plants and furniture from the balcony areas 2. Close and lock sliding doors 3. Close all drapes and blinds 4. Place a small cloth or towel in sliding door tracks to keep water from perking onto the carpet or tiles. Make sure the cloth is in the track and not hanging over onto the floor. 5. Remove items from ground floor storage closets as items may be subjected to flooding. 6. If evacuating, turn off your air conditioner and water heater at the breaker box inside your unit. 7. Unplug your television set, computers and turn your refrigerator to the coldest setting. 8. Set your freezer to 0º or below. Freeze containers of water to keep food cold in case the power goes out. Other recommendations not related to securing your home include: Make sure you have adequate cash on hand; ATM machines may not be working. Buy batteries, you could loose electricity for days or weeks. Prepare your vehicle. Fill your gas tank early, as 13

15 gasoline may not be available for several days. Designate out-of-area contacts such as a family member or friend. Make sure everyone knows the name of the person and their phone number. If you are unable to prepare your unit personally please designate a responsible firm (such as your rental company) or individual to care for the necessary preparations in the event that a hurricane is forecasted to hit the coast. 14

16 Chapter 5 Evacuation Tools Only you can make the decision whether or not to evacuate. To assist you in making a more informed decision we would like to offer the following information. Please note; however, that this is not all inclusive. For that reason we encourage you to seek out further information as needed while making your hurricane preparations. Did you know that when sustained winds reach miles per hour Okaloosa, Walton and Bay counties close their bridges? In addition to bridges being closed all ambulance as well as fire and rescue vehicle are removed from the roadways. This means that not only will you not be able to leave the area, but that emergency crews will not be available to come to your aid. Did you know that when a storm approaches not all emergency shelters in the area are open? There are several factors that determine which shelters will open and when. Do you know where the shelters in your area are located? Do you know how to find out which ones are open? Do you know what items to take with you if you evacuate to a shelter? What about your pets? Can you take them with you? These are the questions that we want to help answer now so that you can prepare accordingly in the event that a mandatory evacuation has been called for by the local Emergency Management Team. 511 Emergency Information When hurricanes, severe weather, wildfires and other emergencies threaten the State of Florida, a free phone call to 511 will provide residents with evacuation and emergency travel information. With one call residents will receive information regarding up-to-the-minute reports on major evacuation routes, bridge and road closures due to hazardous conditions and roadways with toll suspensions. Call 511 for up-to-theminute reports on major evacuation routes, bridge and road closures Or you can visit their website at and sign up for free My Florida 511 personalized services to pre-program several evacuation routes. When an evacuation is called for, assess road conditions and congestion along each route to select the best one. 15

17 Local Broadcast Systems During a hurricane alert tune in to one of your local area broadcast systems. In Bay County these are: FM 94.5, FM 95.9, FM 101.1, and FM In Escambia County these are: FM 101.5, FM 102.7, FM and FM In Okaloosa County these are: AM 1260, AM 1050, FM 105.5, FM and FM In Walton County these are: AM 1280, AM 1460, FM 91.3, FM and FM You can also tune in to WEAR Channel 3 News, WJHG News Channel 7, WTVY Channel 4, or WMBB Channel 13 for local coverage and information related to bridge closings, shelter openings, etc. Shelters Hurricane evacuation shelters are provided for public use in the event an evacuation becomes necessary and you have no other place to go. It is recommended that other arrangements be made with a friend or relative that lives in a well-constructed home, out of the evacuation area, and properly protected to withstand hurricane force winds. You will probably be more comfortable, certainly in a less crowded environment and among friends. If you go to a public evacuation shelter, you will need to take the following items: A change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes. Toiletries and personal items. Blankets or sleeping bags. Identification and any important papers. Games or toys for children; books for adults. Special items for infants or elderly family members. Any special dietary needs and nonperishable foods for snacks. Battery operated radio, flashlights and plenty of spare batteries. Prescription medications or any over-the-counter medications you normally take. Have a Safe Place To Take Your Pets Service animals who assist people with disabilities are allowed in Red Cross shelters. It may be difficult, to find shelter for your animals in the midst of a disaster, so plan ahead. 16

18 Information related to pet Friendly shelters in our area are listed below. Many shelters require that pets have crates or carriers, proof of vaccinations, etc., and that you bring supplies such as food and water. Hotels and motels listed have varying policies as to size/type of animals, and various fees/deposits. Many are free, but some charge a small fee. Please call ahead to verify as this information is subject to change without notice. Bay County: No designated shelter, but one may be made available if a storm approaches. Escambia County: Escambia County has identified a pet friendly shelter FOR CATS AND DOGS ONLY for hurricane evacuations: Molino Park Elementary School 899 Highway 97 Molino, FL Okaloosa County: PAWS (Panhandle Animal Welfare Society) 752 Lovejoy Rd NW, Ft Walton Beach (animals only). Walton County: No designated shelter. For information related to pet friendly hotels throughout the US visit Shelter Locations by County Bay County Bay County uses public schools for hurricane shelters. Depending on the nature of the event and school construction / renovation, different schools may be used each year. Stay tuned to local media or call to find out which schools may be utilized in any given event. For more information visit: Escambia County Hurricane evacuation shelters are provided for public use in the event a hurricane evacuation becomes necessary and if you have no other place to goremember, alcohol, weapons and pets are NOT permitted in public shelters Okaloosa County Okaloosa County does not automatically open all emergency shelters during an evacuation. Several factors determine which shelters will be open. Listen to local radio stations for updates. For more information visit: 17

19 Walton County When an evacuation is ordered, shelters will be opened at: Freeport High School on U.S. 331 (north of Freeport). Northwest Florida State College, Highway 90 West, DeFuniak Springs. As a general rule, this shelter will be opened when the Freeport Shelter is filled to capacity. A Special Needs shelter will be opened as necessary at Walton Middle School, Building 900, on Park Avenue in DeFuniak Springs (historic district.) For more information visit: Evacuation Routes In the event that a mandatory evacuation has been called for in your area do not delay as it can take 30 hours to evacuate residents and guests according to the Walton County Public Information office. Familiarize yourself with your evacuation route and compare the directions to a road map, and trace your route to shelters or to a point outside this area. Maps can be downloaded from: Bay County Evacuation Routes 18

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21 Escambia County Evacuation Routes 20

22 Okaloosa County Evacuation Routes 21

23 Walton County Evacuation Routes 22

24 Chapter 6 After the Storm After the storm has passed and Emergency Management has given the all clear to return home what do you do? Returning to the Local Area Remember that access to the area may be restricted immediately following a storm. Bridges will remain closed until they are inspected by the FDOT and deemed safe for travel. Residents should have proof of residency with them such as a driver s license. Be aware and stay clear of disaster recovery operations. Avoid downed power lines, flooded or damaged roadways. Be aware of snakes and other wildlife that may have been driven to high ground by the storm Assess Home Damage When returning home after a hurricane evacuation, enter with extreme caution. Follow these steps to ensure a safe and speedy recovery from the storm: Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home Check to see if water is contaminated. Check to see if food is safe to eat. Review your Household Inventory to make sure that all valuables remain safe and make a list of those suffering damage Take pictures of the damage for insurance claims Notify your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible. If you have vacated the premises, make sure your representative knows where to contact you. Make temporary repairs. Keep all receipts for work done on your property. Most insurance companies cover reasonable expenses. If power is out and you are using a generator be sure to use it outside on a dry, level surface. 23

25 Water Activity Tips Do not swim in inland waters for at least one week after a tropical storm or hurricane. Bacterial contamination of local waters commonly occurs because of rain and sewage overflow. Sewage contamination of waters can expose bathers to intestinal viruses, bacteria and parasites. Do not swim in offshore and ocean waters if they appear dirty after the storm. While these waters are less likely to be contaminated by bacteria, they may be dangerous due to strong rip tides, currents and wave action. Sharp metal or glass debris may be present in shallow waters after a storm. Refrain from boating for the immediate days following a tropical storm or hurricane. Navigation tools that exist in waters may not be visible due to storm damage. Cleanup Activity Cleanup following a natural disaster can be strenuous and dangerous. Here are some safety tips to keep you from becoming a post-disaster casualty: Drink plenty of water and take frequent rest breaks if you are working outside in the heat. Keep in mind the best time for outdoors work is early morning or late evening the coolest times of the day. People taking certain medications should be especially careful when working in the heat medications can interfere with the body's cooling system. Know the restrictions of your medication/s or consult your physician before engaging in strenuous outdoor work. Wear protective clothing. Safety equipment such as sturdy shoes, goggles and hard hats are recommended for use during cleanup activities to protect against broken glass and other dangerous debris. Remember to consistently monitor your local broadcast stations for continued up-to-date information. 24

26 APPENDIX 25

27 Emergency Contact Information Police 911/Sheriff Deputy Southern Association Management Carol Williamson / Main office in Destin Utility Companies Gulf Power South Walton Utilities Okaloosa Gas Waste Management Cox Communications Other Contacts Insurance HaysCompanies Brian Squire Maintenance Cobb s Maintenance Bill Cobb Elevator Otis TMP Restoration/Remediation All Clear Laura Wichern

28 Sacred Heart Hospital American Red Cross Walton County Emergency Management RENTAL MANAGEMENT COMPANIES Compass Resorts #206 Mona Tilton Dale Peterson - #301, #408 Chris Seeley ext 292 cseeley@destinresorts.com Destin Days - #307, #309 David david@destindays.com Ocean Reef Resorts - #105, #204, #306, #404 Luc Stadelman lstadelman@oceanreefresorts.com Sandcastle Escapes - # info@sandcastleescapes.com Southern Resorts - #104 Carol Marini carolm@gosouthern.com Sterling Resorts - #201, #403 Lauren Blackburn lblackburn@sterlingresorts.com 27

29 Securing Your Boat Prepare in advance, a checklist of things needed to secure your boat. Assemble equipment and supplies and keep them together in a convenient location. Storm tides can potentially reach over 20 feet above normal. When securing your lines, consider tide fluctuation. If tied too short, your boat can be pulled under or be damaged as the tide rises. Wind direction reverses itself in a hurricane. Secure your boat for all directions. Use several anchors. Moor boat securely or move to designated safe area. Double all lines to help secure, but leave enough slack so boat can rise and fall with the tide. If in a marina, check lease or storage agreement. Some marinas require a boat to be removed when hurricanes approach. Make sure docks and seawalls are sound, mooring cleats are secure and pilings are in good condition. Know evacuation/safe area route. Check navigational requirements for different tides and restrictions like bridges and channels if plans call for moving boat inland. 28

30 Seal windows, hatches, doors, portholes and vents with duct tape. Cork or plug the engine's exhaust pipe -- remember to remove before starting the engine. Strip all loose gear: antennae, booms, canvas covers, curtains, deck boxes, dinghies, extra lines and life rings. Remove sails. Remove drain plug on inboard/outboard engine so that won't be damaged by flooding. Trailered boats If you do not have room for both boat and car, leave your boat in the garage. A boat is lighter and more vulnerable to high winds. Let air out of trailer tires and block the wheels. Increase the weight of lighter outboard boats by leaving the drain plug in and adding water with a garden hose. Place wood blocks between the trailer's frame and springs to support the added weight. Leave early for safe harbor. Do not block the passage of other boats in the waterway. Cooperate with other skippers to secure their boats. Follow the directions of the Coast Guard. Remember, there may not be room for your boat at the last minute 29

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34 Notes: 33

35 The information contained in this manual was gathered from a variety of websites including those listed within the manual as well as: