Manual Can-Opener

Remember, when a storm strikes you will probably lose power. Electric can openers do not work well when there is no electricity…

Buy the old timely crank opener for that moment you wished you had!

Members of the Coastal Reconstruction Group team went on a tour in conjunction with the Florida Health Care Association (FHCA) Disaster Council to the Florida Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee, and met with some of the Florida State Emergency Response Team of ESF 8.

Have quick access to a first-aid kit and manual.

When was the last time you checked the contents of your first aid kit? Now is the time to make sure you have fresh materials. In fact, most of us have them but most of us have never used them. Did you know that the items in your first-aid kit can expire? I had a recent experience in which the can of liquid foil would not spray because the gas to make it do so had evaporated! Even the band aides crumbled in my hands!

If you are a renter, YOU do! The insurance your apartment manager carries does not cover your personal possessions. To cover those possessions, you need to obtain renters insurance.

If you lose your belongings to a disaster like a fire or tornado, how will you pay for short-term housing, and how will you immediately begin to replace your possessions – things you need every day like household supplies, clothing and shoes?

To download the Personal Property Estimator form, CLICK HERE!

If you are a Property Manager that would like to have this flyer customized specifically to your community, including logo, at NO COST, please fill out the request form at http://www.coastalreconstruction.com/custom-renters-insurance-form/

The months of August through October are the peak of the annual Atlantic hurricane season, according to the Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML), averaging:

—–78% of the tropical storm days
—–87% of the “minor” hurricane days
—–96% of the “major” hurricane days

And within this peak hurricane season, says the AOML, early to mid-September is the pinnacle.

Not being adequately prepared for a hurricane can have a devastating effect on the operation of your properties. Look to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for resources for you, your employees and your residents/tenants to consider before, during, and after a hurricane strikes. As well, Coastal Reconstruction Group has resources that provide pre- and post-hurricane information for our members and others in the real estate community.

Coastal Reconstruction Group urges you to develop a hurricane preparedness plan, if you haven’t already, and to thoroughly educate your tenants/residents about your properties’ policies and procedures. If you need assistance with a plan, please contact your Coastal representative, or send an email to rapidresponse@coastalreconstruction.com.

Adapted from IREM FYI Flash Email (8/20/2010)

Make sure you have a full tank of gas and some extra on hand.

It is extremely important to know exactly how many miles you can travel on a single full tank of gas – including any round trip you might need to make.

I also suggest having at least 30 gallons of extra fuel stored in your garage. Invest in a fuel saver additive and leave the breath cap open. You might lose a little gas through evaporation, but that is better than what could happen if pressure got too high!

Coastal Reconstruction Group – a Florida Assisted Living Affinity Partner

Co-Owner, Scott McCurdy, inducted into the 2010 – 2011 Florida Assisted Living (FALA) board!

Keep a copy of your emergency manual at home.

Not only is it a good idea to have your emergency manual pages laminated, but keep a cop at home as well. If you do not have a waterproof/fireproof safe at home, a great place to store your manual in the event of a storm or flood is the dishwasher. Unload and place all items you want stored water tight and lock door — this should do the trick!

Over the past few months Scott has been providing tips on what to do to prepare for a disaster, but what should you do after a devastating storm has passed? Here are some recommendations:

• Make sure the main electrical switch to your home or building is off before entering.
• If you have power, turn on a porch or outdoor light to quickly alert utility company crews that you have electrical service.
• Use battery-powered flashlights and lanterns, rather than candles, gas lanterns or torches.
• Monitor news outlets or contact authorities to find out if sewage lines are intact before turning on the water or using the toilet.
• Avoid downed power lines and notify your local utility supplier as soon as possible that lines are down or damaged. Do not attempt to move or repair power lines.
• Do not drive through standing water if downed power lines are in or near the water. If a power line falls across your vehicle while driving, continue to drive away from the line. If the engine stall, do not turn off the ignition. Stay in your car — unless it is on fire — and wait for emergency personnel. Do not allow anyone other than emergency personnel to approach your vehicle.
• Avoid injuries at work when power lines are re-energized and equipment is reactivated.

Following these simple recommendations during a stressful time can keep you safe as you prepare the evaluation and rebuilding process. If you are a member of Coastal’s Rapid Response Program and need assistance, we will be ready to jump into action. Just call our Rapid Response 24-hr hotline number at 1.866.630.5157 and we will begin the process.

If you are not a member, join TODAY for no cost. For more information go to http://www.coastalreconstruction.com/rapid-response.

Assign ahead of time the staff members responsible for your disabled residents.

Prior to any disaster, it is imperative you know who and where your disabled residents are located so you can get to them quickly. These residents have very special needs and may not be able to properly handle an emergency situation. In the event of a power outage, disabled residents relying on power will need immediate attention or the situation could become life-threatening!