Do you know what to do if disaster strikes? Knowing what to do before a hurricane hits can help to make the process not only smoother but less scary, especially for those not originally from the Florida area.
According to Cristine Royer, Director of Marketing and Sales at The Estates at Carpenters, a Life Plan Community in Lakeland, Florida, if you or a loved one are going to be living in Florida during hurricane season, the time to plan is now. “Major hurricanes have swept our state for the past several years, each with varying degrees of intensity,” says Cristine. “Residents of our Life Plan Community have always been fortunate in not needing to worry about preparations for these impending storms. They have peace of mind in knowing that our teams are well-prepared to handle emergencies.”
“For those living at home, it’s best to be as prepared as possible for hurricane season. You don’t want to be caught in the dark if disaster strikes. Have a plan set in place, know how you’ll communicate with family and friends, and know your local evacuation route,” says Cristine.
How to Plan for Hurricane Season
According to Lakeland Electric, there are several ways to prepare. Whether you are planning for the season, are under watch, or are currently under warning, their tips can help keep you out of a bind and as safe as possible. Consider some of these tips.
- Determine evacuation routes and where the nearest shelter is. Ensure you know this information ahead of time, just in case power goes down. You will be unable to look up your nearest shelter and how to get there if your phone doesn’t have power.
- Have a plan for medications. Whether you need to stock up, plan for power needs (like oxygen or CPAPs) or require special medical attention, some shelters and programs can help. If you need assistance, contact the Polk County Special Needs Program at 863-298-7027.
- Prepare your outdoor spaces. Secure all loose yard items and furniture, ensure you have plywood to cover your windows, and make sure your yard is tidy. Unclog your gutters, as well.
- Stock up on essentials. Purchase water bottles, flashlights, batteries, and nonperishable items to be ready if the power goes out. Have enough supplies to be self-sufficient for three days. Don’t forget to keep your phone charged and purchase an extra battery in case you need to update your family on your status.
- Find pet-friendly shelters. If you have a furry friend and need a place to evacuate to with them, there are some options available:
- Philip O’Brien Elementary School – 1225 E Lime St., Lakeland, FL
- Lake Region High School – 1995 Thunder Rd., Eagle Lake, FL
- Alta Vista Elementary School – 801 Scenic Hwy., Haines City, FL
It’s important to note that you will need certain paperwork, including records of shots, an airline-approved carrying case for your animal, food for at least 3 days, collars with tags and a leash, photo of your pet with identity information and address, cat litter pan, toys and more.
After the Hurricane is Over
According to Lakeland Electric, it’s important to be careful and stay away from downed lines, manage trees that have been downed on your property, and report all outages to Lakeland Electric. It may be necessary for you to complete repairs before they can restore power.
This can be a lot for homeowners to worry about, especially when it’s their responsibility to fix the damage, plan for the impending hurricane, and more.
Avoid the Fears & Stresses of Hurricane Season
At The Estates at Carpenters, residents say goodbye to home maintenance burdens before – and after – a hurricane hits. Without fears of losing power, fixing broken windows, and roof leaks, residents can relax with peace of mind and focus on enjoying their carefree lifestyle during hurricane season!
To learn how The Estates at Carpenters can free you from all the worries of weathering life’s storms, contact Cristine at 863-853-5505 Ext. 142. It’s time for you to say hello to the worry-free retirement lifestyle you deserve!
Experience What It Means to Have True Peace of Mind
With the security and peace of mind of Lifecare, it’s no surprise why The Estates at Carpenters is the right choice for a perfectly planned retirement lifestyle. Schedule a tour and talk to our residents and team about why Lifecare at The Estates at Carpenters just makes good financial sense! Discover an uncompromised retirement lifestyle. Schedule your visit today!
About The Estates at Carpenters
The Estates at Carpenters is a Life Plan Community offering worry-free independent living, assisted living, and high-quality skilled nursing care and rehabilitation. For over 33 years, The Estates has provided older adults in the area with an active, engaging lifestyle filled with abundant choices and amenities and services that make life easier. It’s a lifestyle designed to keep older adults healthy and well today – and tomorrow.
For more information on The Estates or to RSVP to an upcoming event, contact Cristine at 863-853-5505 Ext. 142 or visit our website.