The Disaster Planning Committee recently hosted two highly successful events aimed at bolstering community preparedness and safety. The 2nd Annual Disaster Planning Workshop drew over 200 attendees, reinforcing our collective commitment to disaster readiness. The workshop featured a series of insightful presentations from key community leaders, covering a wide range of essential topics from emergency sheltering to storm debris cleanup and pet safety during disasters.This comprehensive event helped association boards understand their roles and responsibilities during storms, as well as the responsibilities of residents.
Following the workshop, the Disaster Planning Symposium took place on May 1st, further enhancing our community’s preparedness. Representatives from critical organizations, including the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, CERT, South Shore Hospital, and TECO, shared valuable insights and resources to help ensure residents are wellequipped to handle a potential disaster.
In addition to these successful Committee events, the Master
Association recently made a significant contribution to enhance our disaster preparedness infrastructure. A new tower and antenna for the radio club will be installed, expanding handheld radio coverage throughout Kings Point. This upgrade ensures residents can seek assistance even when cellular service is unavailable and provides a dedicated communication channel for management and vendors poststorm.
Moreover, we have acquired two Starlink satellite systems, a cuttingedge technology that provides satellite-based internet access. One unit will be stationary, ensuring continuity of operations during internet outages for our staff, while the second unit will be mobile, functioning as a hotspot to enable residents to connect with loved ones and access essential services from various locations throughout the property.
We are excited about these new technologies and are actively developing plans to test and implement them effectively. We will continue to keep the community updated on these projects as we progress. Together, these efforts underscore our ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and resilience of our community.
To all association boards: We are here to help. If you need assistance in creating your individual association disaster plan, please contact our committee chair, MaryAnn Meeker, at master@kpmaster.com. Our committee will work with you to develop a customized plan tailored to your specific needs.
Kings Point Amature Radio Club - Great Resource Before, During, & After A Disaster.
The KPARC (Kings Point Amateur Radio Club) https://kparc.org has hundreds of members, most of which are FCC-licensed amateur operators. Some of our members are from surrounding communities which adds diversity to the club. The club is located at the east end of the main clubhouse. The primary focus of the club is the hobby of ham radio. This includes emergency communications, worldwide radio contacts, electronics, and computing related to radios, satellite tracking, weather monitoring, training, and education. We offer license training and exams, educational programs, and related activities.
THe Kings Point Amateur Radio Club is actively involved in providing emergency communications services to other community organizations and agencies that provide first responder services. They also support a local program for community residents called the Disaster Radio Service. Over 300 local residents have acquired small inexpensive two-way radios that can be used to communicate with the local ham operators in the event of communication out emergency. The hand held radios are for sale for $15.00 each. The small hand held radios are vital after a storm when all power is out, and communication services are down. More information can be found at the website drs.kparc.org.
• The Kings Point Disaster Planning Committee was established in 2018
• Every year the committee conducts many meetings prior to kick off and gathers the most up to date information from all Hillsborough County emergency agencies.
• In 2020 the Master Association created the Kings Point Disaster Planning webpage: (kpmaster.com/disasterplanning) where anyone may go for a plethora of updated information to prepare for a disaster, especially hurricanes.
• The committee itself is comprised of residents of Kings Point, most with first-hand knowledge and experience with the emergency system here in Hillsborough County, and community leaders from the Master Association, The Federation, FirstService Residential, and Vesta.
Important Things To Keep In Mind
• Let your Association know that you are leaving and who will have access to your home for emergency access.
• You are responsible for your won safety and security.
• Kings Point is now in the Hillsborough County designated Evacuation Zone E.
• Emergency services are suspended when wind speeds reach 35 MPH—no one will come to your rescue until after a storm and it is safe to travel.
• The Main and South Gates will not be staffed once the wind speeds reach 35 MPH. Security Staff will be sent home for their safety, and no one will answer the phones until it is safe to return to the Gate Houses.
• The Master Association has contracted Russell Landscaping on a priority basis to begin clearing the roads as soon as it is determined to be safe for the workers to get to Kings Point.
• The Kings Point Clubhouses (Main & South Clubhouses, 2020 Centre, Cyber Café, Gate Houses, etc.) are NOT shelters and will be closed before the storm and will not reopen until they are deemed safe for occupancy.
• The Kings Point Association’s Insurance has arranged for Disaster Response Contractors to begin evaluation and restoration to damaged Association buildings.
• Do not turn off your natural gas, but if you do smell gas call 877-8326747
sever weather event. All residents should follow the directions of governmental entities.
Evacuation Zones vs. Flood Zones
Two different designations for two different purposes
Source: Hillsborough County Emergency Management
Though they are often mistaken for each other, Flood Zones and Evacuation Zones are two very different things that measure very different conditions. So what's the difference? And when do you use them? Here is what you need to know:
Flood Zones
These federally identified zones indicate a property’s risk for flooding at any time of the year, including as a result of heavy or steady rain. This zone has nothing to do with hurricanes or other emergencies, and everything to do with your property insurance and building requirements. Nationally, these zones are classified as Zones A (Special Flood Hazard Area), B, C, D, V and X. Every property is in a flood zone.
When to check the Flood Zone Map:
• You own, rent, or are buying a new property and don’t know if you need flood insurance
• You refinance or get a mortgage
• You need building permits for work on your propert
Evacuation Zones
These are the areas that officials may order evacuated during a hurricane. These zones are mapped by the National Hurricane Center and indicate areas that will be affected by storm surge (stormdriven waves that can inundate a community and threaten lives). Zones in Hillsborough County are identified from A - E.
When to check the Evacuation Zone Map:
• Before hurricane season to make sure your family is prepared
• During a hurricane or major storm, to know if you should evacuate
• You live in a low-lying area or near a stream, pond or body of water.
Interactive Flood and Evacuation Route Maps are Available at www.hillsboroughcounty.org; search Evacuation or Flood Zone
Enough sandbags in the right spot can mean the difference between dry floors and waterlogged carpets. If a storm threatens, the County will announce sand bag distribution as various sites.
NOAA Predicts Above-Normal 2024 Atlantic Season Source: noaa.gov
NOAA National Weather Service forecasters at the Climate Prediction Center predict above-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic basin this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, which spans from June 1 to November 30, predicts an 85% chance of an above-normal season, a 10% chance of a near-normal season and a 5% chance of a belownormal season.
NOAA is forecasting a range of 17 to 25 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 8 to 13 are forecast to become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 4 to 7 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). Forecasters have a 70% confidence in these ranges.
The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have above-normal activity due to a confluence of factors, including near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean, development of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, reduced Atlantic trade winds and less wind shear, all of which tend to favor tropical storm formation.
“With another active hurricane season approaching, NOAA’s commitment to keeping every American informed with lifesaving information is unwavering,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “AI-enabled language translations and a new depiction of inland wind threats in the forecast cone are just two examples of the proactive steps our agency is taking to meet our mission of saving lives and protecting property.”
“Severe weather and emergencies can happen at any moment, which is why individuals and communities need to be prepared today,” said FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik A. Hooks. “Already, we are seeing storms move across the country that can bring additional hazards like tornadoes, flooding and hail. Taking a proactive approach to our increasingly challenging climate landscape today can make a difference in how people can recover tomorrow.”
As one of the strongest El Ninos ever observed nears its end, NOAA scientists predict a quick
transition to La Nina conditions, which are conducive to Atlantic hurricane activity because La Nina tends to lessen wind shear in the tropics. At the same time, abundant oceanic heat content in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea creates more energy to fuel storm development.
This hurricane season also features the potential for an above-normal west African monsoon, which can produce African easterly waves that seed some of the strongest and longer-lived Atlantic storms. Finally, light trade winds allow hurricanes to grow in strength without the disruption of strong wind shear, and also minimize ocean cooling. Human-caused climate change is warming our ocean globally and in the Atlantic basin, and melting ice on land, leading to sea level rise, which increases the risk of storm surge. Sea level rise represents a clear human influence on the damage potential from a given hurricane.
New tools for hurricane analysis and forecasting this year:
Two new forecast models developed by NOAA researchers will go into operation this season: The Modular Ocean Model or MOM6 will be added to the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System to improve the representation of the key role the ocean plays in driving hurricane intensity. Another model, SDCON, will predict the probability of tropical cyclone rapid intensification.
NOAA’s new generation of Flood Inundation Mapping, made possible through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will provide information to emergency and water managers to prepare and respond to potential flooding and help local officials better prepare to protect people and infrastructure.
NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center, in partnership with the NHC, will issue an experimental rainfall graphic for the Caribbean and Central America during the 2024 hurricane season. This graphic provides forecast rainfall totals associated with a tropical cyclone or disturbance for a specified time period.
Vistit www.noaa.gov for more.
Whenever a tropical depression, tropical in the Atlantic or eastern North Pacific, NOAA National Hurricane Center (NHC) issues tropical cyclone advisory information at least every 6 hours. When coastal tropical storm or hurricane watches or warnings are in effect, the NHC and CPHC issue Tropical Cyclone Public advisories every 3 hours.
Warnings
Listen closely to instructions from local officials. Evacuate immediately if told to do so.
Storm Surge Warning
There is a danger of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland from the shoreline somewhere within the specified area, within 36 hours. If you are under a storm surge warning, check for evacuation orders from your local officials.
Hurricane Warning
Hurricane conditions (74 mph or greater) are expected somewhere within the specified area. NHC issues a hurricane warning 36 hours in advance of tropical storm-force winds to give you time to complete your preparations. All preparations should be complete.
Tropical Storm Warning
Tropical storm conditions (sustained
What Are Hurricane and Tropical Storm Watches, Warnings
Source: weather.gov
winds of 39 to 73 mph) are expected within your area within 36 hours.
Extreme Wind Warning
Extreme sustained winds of a major hurricane (115 mph or greater), usually near the eyewall, are expected to begin within an hour. Take immediate shelter in the interior portion of a wellbuilt structure.
Watches
Listen closely to instructions from local officials on TV, radio, cell phones, or other computers for instructions from local officials. Evacuate if told to do so
Storm Surge Watch
There is a possibility of life-threatening
inundation from rising water moving inland from the shoreline somewhere within the specified area, generally within 48 hours.
Hurricane Watch
Hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 mph or greater) are possible within your area. Because it may not be safe to prepare for a hurricane once winds reach tropical storm force, The NHC issues hurricane watches 48 hours before it anticipates tropical storm-force winds.
Tropical Storm Watch
Tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within the specified area within 48 hours.
Should I Go?
If you Plan to Evacuate:
• Develop a personal disaster plan
• Stay alert to storm advisories
• Map out your route in advance. DO NOT get on the road without a place to go.
• If you are booking a hotel, do so before you leave
• Going to a shelter should be the last resort.
• Once shelters are opened, Evacuation assistance is available with HART: gohart.org
• Fill your car with gasoline.
Prepare for long lines and outages
• Get cash as ATMs and banks could be closed for several days
• Have a plan for your pets
• Bring your disaster supply kit with you
• Secure your important documents and valuables and bring them with you
• Secure your home before leaving
• Notify your Association, friends and family of your plans
• LISTEN TO YOUR LOCAL OFFICIALS
An Evacuation Order means that life-threatening conditions are possible in your area soon. When you are told to evacuate, don’t hesitate, leave immediately. The order is for your safety.
Should I Stay?
If You Shelter in Place:
• Develop a personal disaster plan
• Stay alert to storm advisories
• Purchase a NOAA weather radio
• Consider purchasing a two-way radio from the KP Radio Club
• Keep a Disaster Supply Kit ready
• Have enough food and water for at least 3 days
• Protect your valuable documents
• Bring in loose yard objects
• If you do not have hurricane
resistant windows, consider boarding them up
• Get cash as ATMs and banks could be closed for days
• Fill your car with gas
• Have a plan for your pets
• DO NOT use candles or open flames as a light source
• Once the storm hits, get to an interior room with no windows Notify your Association, friends and family of your plans
• LISTEN TO YOUR LOCAL OFFICIALS
If sheltering in place, be aware the winds roar gets very loud and noone can come and get you after winds reach 35 mph. Make a plan in advance if those conditions will affect you?
As hurricane season approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your household for potential emergencies. Having a well-stocked disaster supply kit can make all the difference. A comprehensive kit can sustain your family for at least 72 hours and provide peace of mind. This guide outlines a manageable 12-week plan to gradually build your hurricane supply kit without overwhelming your budget.
Why a 12-Week Plan? Purchasing all your emergency supplies at once can be financially burdensome. By spreading out the purchases over 12 weeks, you can ensure your family is prepared without straining your wallet.
Take advantage of Florida’s taxfree holidays to purchase many of these essential items without paying sales tax. The first holiday is from May 27 to June 9, and the second is from August 26 to September 8. These periods are ideal for stocking up on highcost items such as generators,
Prepare Your Supply Kit Now: A 12 Week Buying Guide
Source: fema.gov and floridadisaster.gov
batteries, and power packs.
It is crucial to have an ample supply of clean water and nonperishable food items that can sustain you and your family for at least three days. FEMA suggests the following:
•Water: Store one gallon of water per person per day. Ensure you have at least a three-day supply for each household member, considering both drinking and sanitation needs.
•Non-perishable Food: Choose foods that do not require refrigeration or cooking. Opt for canned goods, energy bars, dried fruits, and other longlasting items.
Maintain a well-stocked first aid kit and ensure an ample supply of prescription medications. Here are some recommendations:
•First Aid Kit: Include adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, scissors, tweezers, latex gloves, a thermometer, and over-
the-counter medications for pain relief, allergies, and gastrointestinal issues.
•Prescription Medications: Keep at least a seven-day supply of prescription medications for each family member.
During a hurricane, power outages and disrupted communication networks are common. Prepare to stay connected and well-informed with these items:
•Battery-Powered or HandCrank Radio: Include a NOAA Weather Radio or a batterypowered radio to receive important updates and information.
•Cell Phone and Chargers:
Keep your cell phone fully charged before the storm hits and have portable chargers or extra batteries available.
•Flashlights
and Extra Batteries:
Store several flashlights in your kit along with a good supply of extra batteries.
Personal Items and Sanitation:
Maintaining hygiene during and after a hurricane is essential for health and well-being. Include the following items:
•Toiletries: Pack toilet paper, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and personal hygiene products.
•Plastic Bags and Duct Tape: Have a supply of plastic bags for waste disposal and duct tape for various emergency repairs.
•Comfort Items: If evacating, pack sleeping bags, pillows, extra blankets, and battery powered fans.
Preparing for hurricane season doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following the 12-week buying guide, you can systematically build a comprehensive emergency kit without financial strain. Make the most of Florida’s tax-free holidays to save money while ensuring your family’s safety. Start today, and by the peak of hurricane season, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re well-prepared for any emergency.
Dear Residents, We would like to bring to your attention some important information regarding the coverage provided by the Condominium Association’s Property Insurance Policy.
The statutes and laws in the state of Florida that govern Condominiums and Insurance are very specific to what the unit owner’s responsibilities are and what the Condominium’s responsibilities are. It is standard practice and highly recommended that unit owners purchase insurance for the contents and interiors of their units. This is not something that is included in your closing or your mortgage; it is something that needs to be purchased by the unit owner to protect everything inside your apartment. The condominium insurance policy only covers the common areas and inside of the units from the sheet rock back.
The best way to understand what the responsibility of the Association is to know what is NOT covered by the Association’s property policy.
According to Florida Law (F.S 718.111(11)(f)3) the Association’s policy must exclude:
• All personal property within the unit (clothes, computers, electronics etc.)
• Floor, wallcoverings, and ceiling coverings
• Light fixtures
• Electrical fixtures, appliances, water heaters, water filters, built-in cabinets, and counter tops
• Window Treatments Including: curtains, drapes, blinds, hardware, and similar window treatments components
Any items not specifically addressed and or mentioned by the Florida Statute, coverage would be then determined by the provisions of the Condominium Declarations or Bylaws or case law.
Such property and any insurance thereupon is the responsibility of the unit owner. You are not required to purchase insurance by law, and by not having insurance you choose to self-insure (meaning paying out of your own pocket).
There are personal insurance policies available to cover the abovementioned property. Also, these policies provide liability coverage to provide payment for negligent acts against a Third Party’s property or bodily injuries. These types of policies are called “Condominium Unit Owners Coverage (HO6). These personal insurance policies come in handy especially when “Water Damages” arise from bursting pipes or backed up toilets. Sometimes when these events occur it’s very difficult to determine who is ultimately responsible for the damage and in many cases each Unit Owner has to take care of their damages on their own.
Example: Toilet backs up causing
damage to the unit where it occurred and two units below. The units have wood floor damage, carpet, furniture, cabinets. These items are not covered by the Condominium Association’s property policy and if nobody is found negligent each unit is responsible for their own damaged property.
Other scenarios in which Water Damage can occur and nobody may be found negligent: Pipe Burst, Sprinkler Discharge, Fire Fighters response and action.
Having a personal insurance policy can alleviate the headache of not knowing what to do. The insurance company can coordinate payment with all the other parties or other insurance companies involved or simply pay the claim to the insured unit regardless of who is at fault. We recommend that you contact an Insurance Agent if you currently don’t carry a personal policy to protect the property NOT covered by the Association’s policy.
Hillsborough County Evacuation Shelter Information
General Population Shelter Information
Source: Hillsborough County Emergency Management
These shelters are intended to provide immediate protection and save the lives of those in the path of a catastrophic and deadly storm. It’s important to have a plan – shelters are not resorts. If you do need to shelter in a County evacuation shelter keep in mind:
• Evacuation shelters will not have cots, blankets, or food for residents.
• Bring water: one gallon per person, per day , Food: non-perishable, easyto-prepare items, Bedding: pillows and blankets, Medications, medical items and supplies (hearing aids
with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc.), Sanitation and personal hygiene items, Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
• If you have specific comfort needs, plan to get those items ahead of time.
• Don't bring alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, or weapons
• Shelters are opened on an “asneeded” basis.
• Shelter openings may vary with each emergency.
• Never go to a shelter unless local officials have announced it is open
Registration Open for Special Needs Shelters
Source: Hillsborough County Emergency Management
Hillsborough County residents with special medical needs can register for special needs shelters through the Hillsborough County Health Department. While residents should have their own emergency plans in place, a special needs shelters and special needs transportation serve as back-up options for those residents and their caregivers, registration is required.
Residents should complete the application and submit to see if they qualify for a special needs shelter. The form is available in English and Spanish and can be faxed or mailed to health officials. Health Department officials assess the registrations and identify people who will need attention beyond the assistance they might receive at a Red Cross Shelter.
Additional help is available to residents, including:
• Someone with a stable medical condition that requires periodic observation, assessment, or maintenance.
• A person who depends on electricity for medical equipment, such as an oxygen machine or feeding tube.
• An evacuee who needs dialysis.
• Someone who, in a health expert's opinion, might not fare well in a general population shelter.
Remember, Registration before a storm expedites entry to the special needs shelter and assists shelters with planning so sign up early! Residents not registered prior to a storm will be triaged onsite to determine if they meet eligibility.
Special Needs Registration Forms and Pet Shelter Information is available on the kpmaster.com website or the Hillsborough County Site; search special needs shelter.
What Do
Homeowners insurance can cover your property if it is damaged by high winds or falling objects, but; it does not cover flood damage. This is true even if the flood was the direct result of a covered hurricane. Since the risk of hurricanes is so high in Florida, many insurers require property owners to purchase a special hurricane endorsement as part of their home insurance policy.
Without this endorsement, damage caused by a storm that has been named a hurricane, may not be covered. By having a comprehensive homeowners insurance policy and supplementing it with flood insurance, you can cover your property and protect your finances in a few different ways.
Homeowners insurance: This can provide coverage for hurricanerelated damage to the structure of your home (dwelling coverage) and to the personal property you have inside it (contents coverage). This coverage excludes flood damage. Your home insurance policy also includes loss of use insurance. This can cover additional living expenses if you must evacuate prior to a storm or if your house is severely damaged and you must live elsewhere while repairs are made.
Flood insurance: This is designed to cover flood damage to the structure of your home and to your personal property. These policies take 30 days to go into effect so you will want to be sure to purchase your coverage before a storm is headed your way. Understanding what is (or is not) covered in your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy is a necessity. Take time now to learn about the risks you may face and build confidence that you are properly protected.
Make Sure you check to see if you have adequate insurance to cover your property in the Event of a Disaster.
Top 5 Tips to Protect Your Pet in Unforeseen Emergencies
Taking precautions for your pets in the event of a disaster doesn't have to be difficult. It can be easily done in the comfort of your home.These key pointers from the Pet Resource Center will help you care for your pets before an emergency arises.
Top Five Most Important Tips:
1. Make sure that your pet's County registration tag is up-to-date. If it is expired or lost, bring his or her rabies certificate to the Pet Resource Center and get a replacement.
2. Create a disaster kit and I.D. packet for your pet. The kit should include a seven-day supply of food and water per pet, waste disposal items, pet medication, and comfort items like their favorite toys and blankets.The I.D. packet needs to contain your contact information, veterinarian information, the microchip and County pet registration tag numbers, and medical needs
3. Arrange a safe and comfortable place to stay with your pet during an unforeseen crisis, like a family member's or friend's house, or a petfriendly hotel.
5. Public pet-friendly shelters are available in Hillsborough County, but they should be used ONLY as a last resort. Learn here about what to expect at these local shelters.
If you must go to a pet friendly shelter, here are some important considerations: The County’s pet friendly shelters are equipped to handle dogs and cats only. Limited space is available. Your pet will be housed separately from you and you will have limited access to visit your pet. You are responsible for the care and well-being of your animal. You will be scheduled a minimum of twice a day to feed, clean, and walk your pet.
Pet Friendly Shelter Packing List
• Crate/carrier large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in
• Up-to-date pet records
• Photo of owner and pet together
• Food and water supply for a minimum 7 days, along with bowls
• Leash, collar, and muzzle (if needed)
• Pet medications
4. Get a cage/carrier that's easy to transport and large enough for your pet to stand up and move around in.
• Toys or blankets
Hurricane season starts June 1st. The time to put your hurricane preparation plan together is now! This way you can minimize issues during and after the storm.
An important first step is to walk around your house, lanai, porch and landscape. Identify what can become flying objects in strong winds. Think about flowerpots, bird feeders, lawn furniture, plant hangers, garden hoses, metal yard art and much more.
The second step can be to implement your ‘relocation’ strategy. What items can be relocated to your garage, storage shed, inside your home or possibly under or behind shrubs near your house? If you have potted plants on your front porch, you could lay them down horizontally behind the shrubs close to the house. If you stand the pots upright, they will fill with rainwater that, over a few days, could damage the plant. Now that you have
As we prepare for hurricane season, ABC Action News Chief Meteorologist Denis Phillips shareds a comprehensive list of how his family prepares for a storm.
• Charge any device that provides light. Laptops, tablets, cameras, video cameras, and old phones. Old cell phones can still used for dialing 911. Charge external battery backups. (Glow sticks also provide light for a few hours. Stand them upright in a glass or jar to make a lantern).
• Wash all trash cans, big and small, and fill with water for flushing toilets. Line outdoor trash cans with trash bags, fill them with water and store them in the garage. Add bleach to sterilize.
• Fill every tub and sink with water. Cover sinks with Saran Wrap to keep it from collecting dust. Fill the washing machine and leave the lid up to store water.
• Fill old empty water bottles and other containers with water and keep them near sinks for washing hands.
• Fill every Tupperware with water and store in the freezer. These will help keep food cold longer and serve as a backup water supply.
• Fill drinking cups with water and cover them with Saran Wrap. Store as many as possible in
Ensuring Your Home and Garden are Storm-Ready Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping TM agent, UF/IFAS Extension Hills. County
identified what can be moved, start the relocation process. It may well take more time than you anticipate, so starting sooner than later is better.
Purchasing materials you need to protect your home is the third step. If you have several doors on your lanai, consider purchasing large sections of heavy-duty plastic and bags of mulch to absorb
rainwater. Duct tape the heavyduty plastic to your sliding glass and other doors leaving space if there is a drain by the doors. You do not want to cover the drain. Place the bags of mulch on top of the plastic. Even though the mulch is in a bag, it can absorb rainwater. If you have a drain between the screened lanai and covered area, stack bags of mulch on the house side of the
List: How Denis Phillips Prepares for a Storm
Source: www.abcactionnews.com
the fridge. The rest you can store on the counter and use first before any water bottles are opened. Ice is impossible to find after the storm.
• Reserve fridge space for storing tap water and keep the sealed water bottles on the counter.
• Cook any meats in advance and other perishable foods. You can freeze cooked food. Hard boil eggs for snacks for the first day without power.
• Be well hydrated before the storm hits, and avoid salty foods that make you dehydrated.
• Wash all dirty clothes and bed sheets. Anything dirty will smell without the A/C. You may need the items, and with no A/C, you’ll be sweating a lot. You’re going to want clean sheets.
• Toss out any expiring food, clean cat litter boxes, and empty all trash cans in the house, including bathrooms. Remove anything that will cause an odor when the A/C is off. If you don’t have a trash day pickup before the storm, find a dumpster.
• Bring in any yard decor, secure anything that will fly around, secure gates, bring in hoses, potted plants, etc. Bring in patio furniture and grills.
• Clean your environment so you have clear, easy escape routes, even if that means temporarily moving furniture to one area.
• Scrb all bathrooms so you are starting with a clean odor environment. Store water-filled trash cans next to each toilet for flushing.
• Place everything you own that is important and necessary in a backpack or small file box that is easy to grab. Include your wallet with ID, phone, hand sanitizer, snacks, etc. Get plastic sleeves for important documents.
• Make sure you have cash on hand.
• Stock up on pet food and fill
drain. The benefit of using bags of mulch versus sandbags is that you can reuse the mulch in your landscape beds after hurricane season.
Another important detail is to remove dead trees and branches. If you are not able to do that yourself, hire an arborist to evaluate the situation and make recommendations. Safety first!
If you have a debris pile, put the yard waste in garbage cans for weekly pick-up. Act now so your landscape debris is not at the end of your driveway when high winds arrive. A pile of debris can also end up in the stormwater drain, which can become clogged.
Keep an eye on the water level in your swimming pool. If the water level is above the recommended level, drain water to the recommended level.
Be safe!
up bowls of water for pets.
• Refill any medications. Most insurance companies allow for two emergency refills per year.
• Fill your propane tanks. You can heat soup cans, boil water, make coffee, and other stuff besides just grilling meat. Get an extra, if possible.
• Drop your A/C in advance and lower temperatures in your fridges.
• Gather all candles, flashlights, lighters, matches, batteries, and other items and keep them accessible.
• Clean all counters in advance. Start with a clean surface. Buy Clorox Wipes for cleaning when there is no power. Mop your floors and vacuum. If power is out for 10 days, you’ll have to live in the mess you started with.
• Pick your emergency safe place, such as a closet under the stairs. Store the items you’ll need in that location for the brunt of the storm.
• Make a hand fan for when the power is out.
• Shower just before the storm is scheduled to hit.
• Keep baby wipes next to each toilet. Don’t flush them. It’s not the time to risk clogging your toilet!
• Run your dishwasher, don’t risk having dirty, smelly dishes, and you need every container for water!
• Remember you’ll need clean water for brushing your teeth, washing yourself, and cleaning your hands.
• Put a small suitcase in your car in case you decide to evacuate. Also, put at least one jug of water in your car. It will still be there if you don’t evacuate! You don’t need to store all the water in the house. Remember to pack for pets as well.
• Check on all family
members, set up emergency backup plans, and check on elderly neighbors.
• Remember, pets are family too. Take them with you!
• Before the storm, unplug all electronics. There will be power surges during and after the storm.
• Gas up your car and have a spare gas container for your generator or your car when you run out.
• Use plastic cups and paper plates; you need water to wash dishes.
• Also, if you run out of water, tap your hot water heater. It can have up to 30 gallons stored in there.
• Put water in balloons and store in the freezer.
• If you can, take a video of your house and contents, walk room to room and open cabinets/drawers and closets. This will help if you need to make a claim later. It will show proof of items and help you list all the items (help your memory, so you don’t forget anything).
• I also heard you should freeze a cup of water, place a coin on top after it is frozen, and keep this in your freezer to help you gauge the temperature if the power goes out. If the coin stays on top, the food is staying frozen. If the coin falls into the water, the freezer thawed out, and most food will likely need to be thrown away. This is super helpful if you have to leave and come back, as it may appear everything is still frozen, but if the coin is in the cup, you will know.
• Anything that you want to try and preserve but can’t take with you, place it in a plastic bin, put it in your dishwasher, and lock the door. This should make it water-tight in case of any water intrusion into your home. But of course, take all the important/irreplaceable items you can.
The Master Association is dedicated to minimizing safety and monetary risks for the entire community, particularly concerning infrastructure and roadways. In preparation for hurricane season and other potential disasters, the Association has implemented a comprehensive disaster plan that includes several key actions and partnerships.
Regular Inspections and Hazard Mitigation
To ensure the safety of the community, the Master Association conducts regular inspections of roads, bridges, drainage structures, and landscaping. These inspections aim to identify and mitigate any potential safety hazards well in advance of a storm. By proactively addressing these issues, the Association helps reduce the risk of damage and injury during severe weather events.
Designated Staging Areas
The Association has established designated staging areas throughout the property. These areas are intended for use by Section Landscapers and restoration vendors for managing landscape and construction debris. Additionally, if applicable, designated staging areas are provided for FEMA to facilitate their operations in the community.
Assistance to Local Officials and FEMA
In the event of a disaster, the Master Association stands ready to assist local officials and FEMA as needed. This support includes providing resources and coordination to help manage the response and recovery efforts effectively.
Pre-Storm Inspections and Preparations
Once a hurricane watch is issued,
the Association initiates a visual inspection of the property. This inspection includes the following actions:
• Picking up any fallen branches or debris.
• Removing loose articles and debris from lake outfalls.
• Clearing obstructions from storm drains along Master roadways.
• Securing the irrigation yard by turning off all pumps and controllers.
These steps are crucial in reducing the impact of the storm on the community’s infrastructure.
Post-Storm Response
As soon as it is safe to do so after the storm, a manager will be onsite to assess the damage and coordinate the clean-up efforts. This immediate response helps to quickly restore safety and normalcy to the community.
Contracted Services for Recovery
To enhance the community’s recovery efforts, the Master Association has contracted with Russell Landscaping for priority landscaping services after a storm. Additionally, Global Engineering is on standby to provide priority service for maintaining and repairing the community’s drainage infrastructure.
Ongoing Disaster Planning
The Master Association continues to sponsor the DP Committee and collaborates with the Federation and various entities in Kings Point. This ongoing partnership focuses on developing and maintaining a comprehensive disaster plan for the community. By working together, they ensure that the community is well-prepared for any potential disasters, enhancing resilience and safety for all residents.
Disaster-Related Cons and Scams Source: myfloridalegal.com
Unfortunately, natural disasters often bring out con artists and scammers hoping to profit off people's misfortune. Falling for cons and scams can create a financial disaster following the natural disaster. Here are some common cons and scams to watch out for following a natural disaster:
Home repair scams
Following damaging storms (high winds, hail, and tornadoes), hurricanes and even earthquakes, people impersonating home repair businesses and roofing companies will visit affected neighborhoods and offer to repair damage. Red flags that you are dealing with a scammer and not a legitimate business include:
• One-day-only discounts
• Aggressive sales pitches
• Requirement of upfront payment
• You’ve never heard of the company, and it does not have a local, physical address.
• They cannot produce a business license or written information about the company.
Never hire a contractor on the spot. Before hiring anyone to do any work on your home, get your insurance company to survey the damage. You can also verify that the contractor is legitimate by checking with the Better Business Bureau.
A good contractor will always provide you with a written estimate of the cost of the repairs on your home. Though some contractors require a deposit to begin work, it should never be more than 25 percent of the total estimate, and you should not pay anything until the materials needed to complete the job are delivered to your home.
Impersonation of government or insurance company representatives
Many people are desperate following disasters, particularly if they do not have insurance. Unfortunately, some con artists pose as government officials from
agencies such as FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), the Department of Homeland Security, and/or the Department of Health and Human Services, that are responsible for helping disaster victims. These con artists will ask you to share your identification, social security information, and other personal information that can be used to steal your identity. Never give out your personal information to a government employee before verifying they are in fact with the Government. Remember, there are no fees when applying for governmental assistance following a disaster. Any request for fees is fraud. Con artists will also pose as insurance claims adjusters or representatives of insurance companies. Ask for identification to make sure you are giving information to an agent from your insurance company. Donation scams Following disasters, people want to give. Even those directly affected by disasters may want to give financially to help those worse off. Unfortunately, scammers and con artists know this. They pose as charitable organizations helping victims of a disaster. Red flags that you are dealing with a fake charity include:
• Requests for donations to be sent over a wire transfer.
• Requests for cash donations to be sent through the mail.
• An aggressive push for a donation
• Calls from an organization you’ve never heard of or one that has a name close to a better-known charitable organization.
• Reluctance to give a call back number if you say you’d like some “time to think about making the donation” or that “You want to discuss the donation with another family member.”
• Starts the call with a “thank you” for a pledge you don’t remember making.
Update your personal emergency contact Information with FirstServices Residential
UPCOMING MEETINGS
June 12th @ 9:30am Master Assoc. Board Meeting KPNCH - Card Room
June 5th 19th, & 26th @ 9:30 am Master Association Workhop North Forum in 2020 Building
June 26th @ 2:00 PM Master Association Round Table
KPNCH - Ripple Room Association Board Members Only
Note - The COA Summer hours for June and July are Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 9:00AM – Noon. They will be closed in August. No COA meetings will be held June – September.