Appendix B:
Employee Preparedness Information
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-1
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
Your Family Disaster Plan1
Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you
to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home.
What would you do if basic services -- water, gas, electricity or
telephones -- were cut off? Local officials and relief workers will be
on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right
away. Families can -- and do -- cope with disasters by preparing
in advance and working together as a team. Follow the steps
listed below to create your family’s disaster plan. Knowing what
to do is your responsibility for your best protection.
Four Steps to Safety
1. Find Out What Could Happen to You
• Contact your local Red Cross chapter, county emergency management office. Find out what types of disasters are
most likely to happen and request information on how to prepare for each.
• Find out how to help elderly or disabled persons, if needed.
• Find out about the disaster plans at your workplace, your children’s school or day-care center, and other places where
your family spends time.
2. Create a Disaster Plan
• Meet with your family and discuss why you need to prepare for disasters. Explain the dangers of fire, severe weather,
and hurricanes to children. Plan to share responsibilities and work together as a team.
• Discuss the types of disasters that are most likely to happen. Explain what to do in each case.
• Pick two places to meet:
◦◦ Right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, like a fire.
◦◦ Outside your neighborhood in case you can’t return home. Everyone must know the address and phone number.
• Ask an out-of-state friend to be your “family contact.” After a disaster, it’s often easier to call long distance. Other family
members should call this person and tell them where they are. Everyone must know your contact’s phone number.
• Discuss what to do in an evacuation. Plan how to take care of your pets.
3. Complete this Checklist
‰‰ Post emergency telephone numbers by phones.
‰‰ Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1 for emergency help.
‰‰ Check if you have adequate insurance coverage.
‰‰ Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher and show them where it’s kept.
‰‰ Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
‰‰ Conduct a home hazard hunt.
‰‰ Stock emergency supplies and assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit.
‰‰ Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class.
‰‰ Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room.
‰‰ Find the “safe room” in your home.
4. Practice and Maintain Your Plan
• Quiz your children every six months so they remember what to do.
• Conduct fire and emergency evacuation.
• Replace stored water every three months and stored food every six months.
1
From “Family Disaster Plan” developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross with
information provided by your county emergency management agency and the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-3
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
• Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer’s instructions.
• Test your smoke detectors monthly and charge the batteries at least once a year.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Working with neighbors can save lives and property. Meet with your neighbors to plan how the neighborhood could work
together after a disaster until help arrives. If you’re a member of a neighborhood organization, such as a homeowners
association or crime watch group, introduce disaster preparedness as a new activity. Know your neighbors’ special skills
(e.g., medical, technical) and consider how you could help neighbors who have special needs, such as disabled and elderly
persons. Make plans for childcare in case parents can’t get home.
Home Hazard Hunt
During a disaster, ordinary objects in your home can cause injury or damage. Anything that can move, fall, break or cause a
fire is a home hazard. For example, a hot water heater or a bookshelf can fall. Inspect your home at least once a year and
fix potential hazards. Contact your local fire department to learn about home fire hazards.
Evacuation
• Evacuate immediately if told to do so.
• Listen to your local media and follow the instructions of local emergency officials.
• Wear protective clothing and sturdy shoes.
• Take your Disaster Supplies Kit.
• Lock your home.
• Shut off water, gas, and electricity before leaving, if instructed to do so.
• Tell others when you are leaving and where you are going.
• Make arrangements for your pets.
DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT
Here are the most important items for your Disaster Supplies Kit. Stock up
today and store in a water-resistant container. Replenish as necessary.
‰‰ Two weeks supply of prescription medicines
‰‰ Two weeks supply of non-perishable/special dietary foods
‰‰ Drinking Water/containers - 1 gal/per person/per day (min.3 days)
‰‰ Flashlights and (7 sets) batteries for each member of the family
‰‰ Portable radio and (7 sets) batteries
‰‰
First aid book and kit including bandages, antiseptic, tape,
compresses, aspirin and aspirin pain reliever, anti-diarrhea
medication, antacid, Syrup of Ipecac (used to promote vomiting if
advised by the Poison Control Center)
‰‰ Mosquito repellant and citronella candles
‰‰ Fire extinguisher (small canister, ABC type)
‰‰ Instant tire sealer
‰‰ Whistle and/or distress flag
‰‰ Two coolers (one to keep food; one to go get ice)
‰‰ Plastic tarp, screening, tools and nails, etc.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-4
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
‰‰ Water purification kit (tablets, chlorine (plain) and iodine)
‰‰ Infant necessities (medicine, sterile water, diapers, ready formula, bottles)
‰‰ Clean-up supplies (mop, buckets, towels, disinfectant)
‰‰ Camera and film
‰‰ Non-electric can opener
‰‰ Extra batteries for camera, flashlights, radio, portable TV and lamps, etc.
‰‰ Garbage can or bucket with tight lid (for emergency toilet)
‰‰ Plastic trash bags
‰‰ Toilet paper, paper towels and pre-moistened towelettes
If you evacuate you also should take:
‰‰ Pillows, blankets, sleeping bags or air mattresses
‰‰ Extra clothing, shoes, eyeglasses, etc.
‰‰ Folding chairs, lawn chairs or cots
‰‰ Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
‰‰ Quiet games, books, playing cards and favorite toys for children
‰‰ Important papers and irreplaceable keepsakes (driver’s license, special medical information, insurance policies and
property inventories)
Precious commodities before and after a storm
‰‰ Cash (With no power, banks may be closed; checks and credit cards unaccepted, and ATMs may not be
operational).
‰‰ Charcoal, Wooden Matches and Grill
‰‰ Ice
‰‰ A land line phone that does not require electricity!
ADVICE FOR OLDER ADULTS
In Florida we are particularly vulnerable to severe weather like hurricanes and elders are
especially susceptible to their effects. Those who live alone, or are without the support of
family or friends, must take special precautions in the event of an emergency situation.
People who are frail or disabled (either mentally or physically) may need special assistance
from family members, friends or social service agencies. Older adults who are also caregivers
may require outside assistance. Excessive stress and anxiety can contribute to increased
episodes of illness, particularly for persons with heart disease and other illnesses. If an older
adult lives in a nursing home, assisted living facility (ALF) or boarding home, the administrator
should be contacted to learn about the disaster plan for that facility.
HOME HEALTH CARE & HOMEBOUND PATIENTS
• Tell your health agency where you will be during a hurricane. Ask them about their plans to provide care.
• If you are homebound and under the care of a physician, but not a home health agency, contact your physician.
• If you require respirators or other electric-dependent medical equipment, you should make prior medical arrangements
with your physician. You should also register with your local power company.
• If you require oxygen, check with your supplier about emergency plans.
• If you evacuate, remember to take medications, written instructions regarding your care, special equipment and
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-5
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
bedding with you.
• If you will need assistance in an evacuation or need to go to a special needs shelter, register NOW with your
County Emergency Management Agency.
• Special needs shelters do not provide hands-on medical care, only medical monitoring. Bring a caregiver with you.
• If you would require hospitalization, you must make prior arrangements through your physician.
• Please remember that hospitals are NOT shelters. During disaster such as hurricanes, hospitals have a limited number of
resources that must be rationed to care for the sick and injured.
PROTECT YOUR PETS!
Pets and Disasters: Get Prepared
The following information has been prepared by the Humane Society of the United
States in cooperation with the American Red Cross.
The best way to protect your family from the effects of a disaster is to have a disaster
plan. If you are a pet owner, that plan must include your pets. Being prepared can
save their lives.
Different disasters require different responses. But whether the disaster is a hurricane
or a hazardous spill, you may have to evacuate your home. In the event of a disaster
and if you must evacuate, the most important thing you can do to protect your pets
is to evacuate them, too. So prepare now for the day when you and your pets may
have to leave your home.
Pet owners are responsible for emergency planning for their pet. If you plan to evacuate, plan for your pet as well. Take your
Pet Survival Kit if you go to friends, relatives or a hotel. Unless there are “pet-friendly” shelters in your county, shelters cannot
accept pets. Don’t leave your pet and don’t use your pet as an excuse not to evacuate and put yourself, your family and
your pet at risk! As a pet owner, you must plan ahead. Check out your options. For more information call your local SPCA,
Animal Control or Humane Society. If you plan to go to a hotel or motel, go online to www.petswelcome.com.
After a disaster, be careful in allowing your pet outdoors. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and your pet
could easily be confused and become lost. Downed power lines and animals and insects brought in with high water could
present real dangers to your pet. Take care not to allow your pet to consume food or water which may have become
contaminated.
PET SURVIVAL KIT
‰‰ Proper ID collar and rabies tag/license* and vaccination paperwork
‰‰ Carrier or cage (large enough for your pet to move around)
‰‰ Leash
‰‰ Ample food supply (at least two weeks)
‰‰ Water
‰‰ Water/food bowls
‰‰ Any necessary medication(s)
‰‰ Specific care instructions
‰‰ Newspapers, cat litter, scoop, plastic trash bags for handling waste
‰‰ Proper ID on all belongings
‰‰ Photo of you and your pet
‰‰ A comfort item such as a favorite toy or blanket
‰‰ Non-electric can opener
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-6
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
*Make sure your pets have had all their shots within the past 12 months. Pet-friendly shelters and boarding facilities will require
proof of vaccinations.
Caring for Birds in an Emergency
Birds should be transported in a secure travel cage or carrier. In cold weather, wrap a blanket over the carrier and warm up
the car before placing birds inside. During warm weather, carry a plant mister to mist the birds’ feathers periodically. Do not
put water inside the carrier during transport. Provide a few slices of fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content. Have
a photo for identification and leg bands. If the carrier does not have a perch, line it with paper towels and change them
frequently. Try to keep the carrier in a quiet area. Do not let the birds out of the cage or carrier.
About Other Pets
Reptiles: Snakes can be transported in a pillowcase but they must be transferred to more secure housing when they reach the
evacuation site. If your snakes require frequent feedings, carry food with you. Take a water bowl large enough for soaking
as well as a heating pad. When transporting house lizards, follow the same directions as for birds.
Pocket Pets: Small mammals (hamsters, gerbils, etc.) should be transported in secure carriers suitable for maintaining the
animals while sheltered. Take bedding materials, food bowls, and water bottles.
A Final Word
If you must evacuate, do not leave your animals behind. Evacuate them to a pre-arranged safe location if they cannot
stay with your during the evacuation period. (Remember, pets are not allowed in American Red Cross shelters.) If there is a
possibility that disaster may strike while you are out of the house, there are precautions you can take to increase your pets’
chances of survival, but they are not a substitute for evacuating with your pets. For more information, contact The Humane
Society of the United States, Disaster Services, 2100 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20037.
HURRICANES AND TROPICAL STORMS: THE PRICE OF PARADISE
In the Tampa Bay Region, we have the best of all worlds – beautiful Gulf views,
magnificent sunsets, warm weather tempered with a gentle Gulf breeze as
well as the vibrant economy and cultural opportunities of a metropolitan
area…most of the time. But, with the coastline and population, there is also
a vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes. Experts have warned that
we are leaving an era of relatively low tropical storm activity and returning
to a more active period. As with any other natural hazards - snowstorms,
flooding or earthquakes – it is your responsibility to prepare your family and
your business to weather a storm.
HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE AGAIN.
TOP TEN THINGS TO DO NOW:
1.
Make your Family Disaster Plan. It’s not hard. Read through this guide and make your plan. Talk with your family. If you
need help, go online to www.tampabayprepares.org or http://www.myflorida.com/myflorida/family_prepare_guide.html
or call your local emergency management agency or local chapter of the American Red Cross. Phone numbers are listed
on the inside map page of the Guide.
2.
Refer to the County Hurricane Evacuation Map. Locate where you live and your evacuation level. Determine if and when
you would have to evacuate. REMEMBER: All mobile home residents must evacuate, regardless of location. If you need
help determining your zone, go online or call your local emergency management office citizen information center BEFORE
THE STORM THREATENS.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-7
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
3. Decide NOW where you would go if ordered to evacuate (a friend or relative, a hotel or motel, or at last resort, a public
shelter or out of the region). REMEMBER, if you are going to leave the area or go to a hotel, you must leave VERY early.
Determine your route and plan to travel as little as necessary.
4. Check your Disaster Supplies Kit and obtain any items you need.
5. Make plans and purchase materials to protect your home before the storm (shutters or other window protection, plastic
sheeting, nails, etc.).
6. Keep your home in good repair. Tack down loose roofing, trim trees, keep gutters clean, etc.
7. Purchase a battery-powered weather alert radio and a non-electric land-line phone.
8. Inventory (and video record) your property and possessions. Store with insurance and title papers in a safe place and send
a copy to a relative out of the area.
9. Make sure your address (number) is clearly marked on your home.
10.Whether you rent or own your home, review your insurance policies with your agent now.
AS THE STORM APPROACHES:
THE HURRICANE WATCH
• Listen for weather updates on local stations and on NOAA Weather Radio. Don’t trust rumors, and stay tuned to the
latest information.
•
REMEMBER: Hurricanes can be very unpredictable. There is always potential “error” in the forecast track from the National
Hurricane Center. At the 24 hour forecast, the average error is approximately 90-100 miles away from the forecast point.
Don’t focus on the exact point or forecasted track, listen to local officials. For more information go to www.noaa.gov or
www.weather.gov (click on Tampa Bay area).
• Check your Disaster Supplies Kit. Obtain any needed items.
• Refill prescriptions. Maintain at least a two-week supply during hurricane season.
• Clear yard, e.g., lawn furniture, potted plants, bicycles and trash cans.
• Protect your windows and glass doors. Brace double entry and garage doors at the top and bottom.
• If there is a chance flooding could threaten your home, move important items off the floor (i.e., computers and stereo
equipment, bedding, antiques, etc.).
• Fill your car’s gas tank and check oil, water and tires. Gas pumps don’t operate without electricity.
• Secure your boat early. Drawbridges will be closed to boat traffic after an evacuation order is issued.
• Leave the swimming pool filled and super-chlorinated. Cover the filtration system.
• Get cash. Banks and ATMs won’t be in operation without electricity and few stores will be able to accept credit cards
or personal checks.
THE HURRICANE WARNING:
If You Can Stay At Home
If you live in a sound structure outside the evacuation area and do not live in a mobile home, stay home and take these
precautions:
• Make sure your windows are protected and home is secured.
• Clean containers for drinking water and your bath tub for storing clean water. Plan on three gallons per person, per day
for all uses.
• Offer your home as shelter to friends or relatives who live in vulnerable areas or mobile homes.
• Check your Disaster Supplies Kit. Make sure you have at least a two-week supply of non-perishable foods. Don’t forget
a non-electric can opener.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-8
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
• During the storm, stay inside and away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Find a Safe Room in your home (an
interior, reinforced room, closet or bathroom on the lower floor.
• Wait for official word that the danger is over. Don’t be fooled by the storm’s calm “eye.”
• If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker.
• If you lose power, turn off major appliances, such as the air conditioner and water heater to reduce damage from surge
when power is restored.
• Monitor your battery-operated radio, NOAA weather radio or TV for the latest advisories and other emergency
information.
If You Must Evacuate
Stay tuned to your local radio and television station for emergency broadcasts. If ordered to evacuate, you must do so
immediately.
• Take your Disaster Supplies Kit with you!
• Take important papers with you, including your driver’s license, special medical information, insurance policies (company
and agent’s name and number) and property inventories. Also take irreplaceable items (photos or keepsakes).
• Let friends and relatives know where you are going. Make sure your neighbors have a safe ride.
• Turn off electricity, water and gas.
• Lock windows and doors.
Friends or relatives
If you’ve made plans to stay with a relative or friend, make sure your destination is not within a zone that has been ordered
evacuate. Take enough supplies for your family.
Leaving Coastal Areas
If you are leaving the area, remember to take supplies with you. Move inland away from the storm surge and inland flooding,
but it is not recommended that residents try to leave the region. Roads will be heavily congested and you run the risk of (1)
being caught on the highway without a safe refuge or (2) running into the storm if it takes a different track.
Hotel or motel
If you plan to go to a hotel or motel, you will need to check for availability and make your reservation well in advance. Some
hotels/motels have “standing reservation hurricane programs” and some relax their pet restrictions in an emergency. If you
intend on going to a local hotel or motel, call them and ask if they have special hurricane policies in place. Again, make sure
your destination is not in an evacuation zone.
PROTECTING YOUR HOME
There are some specific actions you should take to make your home safer. To
make some of these improvements, you will have to get up in the attic or crawl
space with a flashlight. You may feel more comfortable with an experienced
and licensed inspector, architect, engineer or contractor inspecting your home.
Whatever choice you make, take time to do this well before the storm threatens.
To withstand the forces of wind associated with severe weather, REMEMBER your
A,B,C’S:
•Anchor your roof;
•Brace entry and garage doors;
•Cover your windows; and find your
•Safe Room
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-9
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
Anchor Your Roof
• If your roof was built before 1994 and is gabled, brace all gable end framing with horizontal and vertical beams. Also,
make sure that there is wood sheathing (planks or plywood) behind the stucco of the triangular gable end walls.
• Using a caulking gun, apply a 1/4 inch bead of APA AFG-01 certified wood adhesive along an intersection of the roof
deck and roof support element (rafter or truss chord) on both sides of the beam. This technique can increase the wind
uplift resistance by up to 3 times, but should not be used if you are going to re-roof in the near future.
Brace Your Entry and Garage Doors
• Entry doors are easily damaged by high winds. Bolt all doors with foot and head bolts with a minimum one inch bolt
throw length.
• Garage doors should be able to withstand hurricane wind loads and the impacts of flying debris. If yours does not,
replace with a hurricane resistant one. Approximately 80% of residential hurricane wind damage starts with wind entry
through garage doors.
Cover Your Windows
Protecting your windows is perhaps one of the most important factors in securing your home or office from total destruction
in a hurricane or severe storm.
• Make sure all doors and windows are properly caulked and/or weather stripped.
• Replace gravel/rock landscaping material with fire treated, shredded bark to reduce damage.
• Cover all windows and glass doors with securely fastened, impact-resistant shutters or other approved window protection
systems with proper mounting fixtures or replace them with impact resistant laminated window and door systems, if
feasible. Hint: You don’t have to use the same system on every window.
Safe Room
Regardless of the type of window protection you choose, DO NOT stay in a room which does not have shielded windows/
glass doors. Find an interior room – a bathroom, hallway or closet which will help buffer you from the storm’s winds. Make sure
all family members know where the safe areas are in your home.
When Building or Remodeling:
• Replace your old garage door with a hurricane resistant one.
• When replacing windows or doors, consider impact resistant glass or some type of shutter/ wind abatement system.
• When replacing soffits, check for hurricane clips; install connections between roof truss and walls.
• When repairing roof, check the decking. Make sure it is secure and nailed properly.
• When reproofing, install roof covering that is rated for hurricane force winds and (Class 5) fire resistance.
• For more tips, go online to www.flash.org (Federal Alliance for Safe Homes) or call Toll-Free (877) 221-SAFE.
• Building a new home? Be safe and smart. Ask for a hurricane-resistant home. For more information go online to the
Institute for Business and Home Safety www.ibhs.org or FLASH at www.blueprintforsafety.org.
For Mobile Home Residents
• Anchor mobile homes with tie downs. Inspect tie downs annually.
• Never stay inside mobile homes to ride out the storm. Always evacuate to a friend or relative’s home, hotel or motel or
nearby designated storm shelter.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-10
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
WHAT TO EXPECT: AFTER THE DISASTER
As we learned, after a disaster such as a tropical storm or hurricane strike,
you may be without power and many of the services we rely on (water,
sewer, phone, cell phone, and businesses). Understand that gas stations,
supermarkets, restaurants, city and county governments just went through
the same storm you did and there will be an interruption in services while
repairs are made. Immediate response may not be possible, so residents
must be prepared to be self-reliant for a minimum of three days up to
several weeks.
Re-entry
•
Be Patient. Access to affected areas will be controlled. You won’t
be able to return to your home until search and rescue operations are
complete and safety hazards, such as downed trees and power lines,
are cleared. It may take up to three days for emergency crews to reach your neighborhood. It may take 2-4 weeks
before utilities are restored.
• Stay tuned to your local radio station for advice and instructions about emergency medical aid, food and other forms
of assistance.
• Have valid ID. Security operations will include checkpoints. Valid identification with your current local address will be
required.
• Avoid driving. Roads will have debris which will puncture your tires! Don’t add to the congestion of relief workers, supply
trucks, law enforcement, etc.
• Don’t sightsee, especially at night.
Safety First!
• Avoid downed or dangling utility wires. Metal fences may have been “energized” by fallen wires. Be especially careful
when cutting or clearing fallen trees. They may have power lines tangled in them.
• Beware of snakes, insects or animals driven to higher ground by floods.
• Enter your home with caution. Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
• If there has been flooding, have an electrician inspect your home or office before turning on the breaker.
• Be careful with fire. Do not strike a match until you are sure there are no breaks in gas lines. Avoid candles. Use battery operated flashlights and lanterns instead.
• Keep grills and generators outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
• Use your telephone only for emergencies to keep lines open for emergency communications.
• Call professionals to remove large, uprooted trees, etc.
• Always use proper safety equipment such as heavy gloves, safety goggles, heavy boots, light- colored long-sleeved shirts
and long pants.
• Tie back long hair, wear a hat and sunscreen.
• Drink plenty of fluids, rest and ask for help when you need it.
• Lift with the legs, not with the back.
• Don’t burn trash.
• If you can’t identify it, don’t touch it.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-11
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
REPAIRS
• Make temporary repairs to correct safety hazards and minimize further damage. This may include covering holes in the
roof, walls or windows and debris removal.
• PROTECT YOURSELF FROM CONTRACTOR FRAUD! Only hire licensed contractors to do repairs. Check with the local
Building Department to ensure the contractor is licensed. If you hire a contractor, don’t pull the permits for them. If the
contractor makes this request, it may be an indication that he is not properly licensed.
• Take photographs of all damage before repairs and keep receipts for insurance purposes.
• After assessing damage to your home, contact your local building department for information on required building
permits. Permits are always required for any kind of demolition or permanent repairs, reconstruction, roofing, filling and
other types of site development. Report illegal flood plain development to your local building department.
• Local ordinances do not permit dumping in drainage canals or ditches because it causes backups and overflow in the
system. Report illegal dumping.
WATER PRECAUTIONS
Whenever widespread flooding occurs, there is a potential for bacterial contamination. Bacteria, such as shigella and
salmonella, can lead to life threatening dehydration for people and their pets if untreated by antibiotics. Disinfect any tap
water you drink or use for cooking or cleaning. You must purify the tap water until officials notify you of its safety. Bring water
to a rolling boil for a full minute or use chemicals (eight drops of chlorine bleach or iodine per gallon) or water purification
tablets, as directed. Let the water sit at least 10 minutes before using. Water you saved in clean containers before the storm
will be fine for 2-3 weeks. To be sure, add two drops of chlorine or iodine per gallon before drinking.
THE POWER OF PLANNING AHEAD
With flooding and high winds, you can assume you will experience some power loss. Downed trees and flying debris are the
major culprits. Power companies in the Tampa Bay area have very detailed and extensive plans for restoration. Their mission
is to get the power back online as soon as possible. However, Floridians need to have realistic expectations.
• Crews cannot be deployed into the neighborhoods before the winds die down.
• There is a priority restoration plan: critical facilities (like hospitals, nursing homes, fire stations, 911 centers, and shelters) are
first, then those repairs which will bring the most residents and businesses back online the quickest. Be patient.
• Unplug as many appliances and other electrical equipment as possible to avoid shock and surges when power is
restored.
•
First use perishable food and foods from the refrigerator, then use foods from the freezer. To minimize the number of times
you open the freezer door, post a list of freezer contents on it. In a well-filled, well-insulated freezer, foods will usually
still have ice crystals in their centers (meaning the foods are safe to eat) for at least three days. However, do not refreeze
defrosted foods once power is restored.
• Use nonperishable foods and staples last.
• For emergency cooking, you can use a charcoal grill or camp stove (outdoors only!). You also can heat food with
candle warmers, chafing dishes and fondue pots.
• Canned foods can be eaten right out of the can. If you heat it in the can, be sure to open the can and remove the
label first.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-12
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
GENERATORS
Appliance
Run Watts
Portable Generators are ideal for emergency power. Before purchasing a
portable generator, assess your requirements:
Air Conditioner
3250
AM/FM Radio
50
Toaster
1000
1. Determine the appliance or equipment you want to use.
Vacuum Cleaner
600-1500
2. Determine if a portable or stationary generator is required.
Water heater
3000-4500
3. Determine if you will need multiple outlets or multiple types of outlets on
your generator.
Dishwasher
500
Clothes Dryer
5750
Deep Freezer
500
Washing Machine
1150
• Fueled by gas, generators can run appliances and fans.
•
Don’t connect a portable generator to building wiring. There is a
danger of generator back-feed. If these units are hooked up
improperly they can energize the neighboring utility wires at up to
14,000 volts. This creates and extreme hazard for the general public
(downed wires etc.) and utility workers.
• Plug appliances, etc., directly into the generator.
• Place generator outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
• Don’t forget to check the oil every time you add gas.
• Conserve fuel by alternating appliances. For example, refrigerators
can be kept cool by supplying power eight hours a day.
Garage
Door 550
Opener (1/4 hp)
Attic Fan
300
Electric Range
1500
Color Television
300
Microwave
750
Sump Pump
800
Water Pump
500-1000
Refrigerator
500
Four 100-Watt Light 400
Bulbs
Computer
A WORD ABOUT INSURANCE
250
Insurance is something most people don’t want to think about until they need it most. But understanding what is and isn’t
covered in your homeowner’s and renters’ insurance policy can mean the difference of being able to rebuild your home and
replace your personal belongings.
• Policy Limits Must be Adequate to Replace the Home if That Becomes
Necessary
You need enough insurance to cover the cost of rebuilding your home at current construction costs. Don’t include the cost
of the land. Check the value of your insurance policy against rising local building cost EACH YEAR. Advise your insurer and
increase the limits of your policy if you make improvements or additions to your house.
• Federal Flood Policy is Necessary for Flooding and Storm Surge Coverage
Standard homeowner’s policies do not cover damage from floods, including storm surge from a hurricane, which is
considered flooding. Much of the damage from Hurricane Ivan in west Florida to homes on barrier islands was caused by
storm surge. Insurance for flooding and storm surge is available from the National Flood Insurance Program. Information
should be available through the agent handling the regular homeowner’s policy, but also from the National Flood Insurance
Program or by calling 1-888-379-9531. Remember, there is a 30 day waiting period for flood insurance to go into effect.
Don’t wait until a storm is threatening.
• Make Sure You are Aware of Your Hurricane Deductible
Even though the requirements have been in effect for 10 years, many Florida residents were caught unaware of their
homeowner’s insurance deductible. Most homes in Florida, 70 percent, have a special deductible for hurricane damage
in the amount of 2 percent of the policy limits per event. For a 200,000 home, that is approximately $4000 per event. Homes
valued at less than $100,000 may still have a $200 - $500 deductible. More expensive homes may have a 5% deductible.
Talk with your agent to determine your potential out of pocket expense.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-13
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
• Building Code Upgrade Coverage
Building codes are updated periodically and may have changed
significantly since your home was built. If your home is badly damaged,
you may be required to rebuild your home to meet new building codes.
That includes homes built before flood regulations which may require the
home to be elevated. Many insurance companies offer an Ordinance or
Law endorsement that pays a specified amount toward these additional
costs.
• Personal Possessions
Most homeowner’s insurance policies provide coverage for your personal
possessions in amounts approximating 50% to 70% of the amount of
insurance you have on the main structure or “dwelling.” The limits of
the policy typically appear on the Declarations Page under Section I,
Coverage C. Contents. To determine if this is enough coverage, you need
to conduct a home inventory and talk with your agent.
• Replacement Cost or Actual Cash Value Coverage for Possessions
You can insure your possessions in two ways. You can either insure your belongings for their actual cash value or their
replacement cost. A cash value policy pays the cost to replace your belongings minus depreciation. A replacement cost
policy, on the other hand, reimburses you for the cost to replace the item.
• Additional Living Expenses After a Disaster
This is a very important feature of a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. This pays the additional costs of temporarily
living away from your home if you can’t live in it due to a hurricane, fire or other insured peril. It covers hotel bills, restaurant
meals and other living expenses incurred while you are unable to inhabit your home. Flood insurance does not include
additional living expense coverage, so this assistance will not be available when damages to a home occurred from
flooding or storm surge.
Tips for Filing Insurance Claims
• Call your agent or insurance company. Have the following information with you when you place your call: (1) the name
of your insurance company (your agent may write policies for more than one company); (2) your policy number; and
(3) a telephone number/e-mail address where you can be reached.
• When you file your claim, ask for an approximate time frame during which an adjustor can be expected to visit your
home so you can plan accordingly.
• ONCE YOU HAVE REPORTED YOUR LOSS, an adjustor will work with you to calculate the value of the damage and
prepare a repair estimate.
• BEFORE THE ADJUSTOR ARRIVES
◦◦ Local officials may require the disposal of damaged items. If you dispose of items, please keep a swatch or other
sample of damaged item(s) for the adjustor.
◦◦ Separate damaged items from undamaged items. If necessary, place items outside the home.
◦◦ Take photos. Take photos of any water in the house and damaged personal property. Your adjustor will need
evidence of the damage and damaged items (i.e., cut swatches from carpeting, curtains, chairs) to prepare your
repair estimate.
◦◦ Make a list of damaged or lost items and include their age and value where possible. If possible, have receipts for
those items available for the adjustor.
◦◦ If you have damage estimates prepared by a contractor(s), provide them to the adjustor since they will be considered
in the preparation of your repair estimate.
◦◦ Contact your insurance company if an adjustor has not been assigned to you within several days.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-14
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
Flood Insurance
Flooding causes more than 90 percent of all disaster-related property damage
in the United States but most homeowner policies do not cover flood damage.
Because of this, homeowners need flood insurance -- a special policy backed by
the federal government, with cooperation from local communities and private
insurance companies. About 200 insurance companies, possibly including the
company that already handles your homeowner’s insurance, write and service
flood insurance policies for the government, which finances the program through
premiums. Although flood insurance is relatively inexpensive, most Americans
neglect to purchase protection. For more information about federal flood
insurance, visit www.fema.gov/nfip.
National Flood Insurance Program
Only about one-quarter of the homes in areas most vulnerable are insured against
flood loss, according to the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA). In those areas,
flooding is 26 times more likely to occur than a fire during the course of a typical
30-year mortgage. More than 19,000 communities have agreed to stricter zoning
and building measures to control floods, according to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA). Residents in these communities are entitled to
purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP),
a program FEMA oversees.
30-day Waiting Period
An important fact to know is that a flood insurance policy does not take effect until 30 days after you purchase it. So, if the
weather forecast announces a flood alert for your area and you run to purchase coverage, it’s already too late. You will not
be insured if you buy a policy a few days before a flood.
Flood Zoning
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has placed more than 19,000 communities in the United States into a
category of flood zones. Each community is able to participate in the agency’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), with
premium rates determined by the risks of flooding. To indicate the risks in different parts of the country, FEMA has assigned a
character from the alphabet to each zone. The most hazardous flood zones are V (usually first-row, beach-front properties)
and A (usually, but not always, properties near water). X zones are minimal-risk areas where flood insurance is not mandatory.
D zones are areas that have not been studied, but where flooding is possible. Even though you are not in a “flood zone,” flood
insurance is available in participating communities and encouraged.
Living In a Flood Zone
If your home is in a “V” or “A” zone, adhere to the following recommendations:
•
The bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member of the lowest floor elevation must be at or above the Base Flood
Elevation (BFE). If your home was built before the NFIP regulations went into effect and is below the BFE, remember that
if it damaged more than 50% or if you want to make improvements (which will increase the value more than 50%, you
will be required to elevate your home.
• Enclosed areas below the lowest floor cannot be used for living space.
• In V-Zones, the building must be elevated on piles, piers, posts or column foundation. In A-Zones, fill is typically
permitted.
• Electrical, heating ventilation, plumbing, air conditioning equipment and other service facilities must be elevated to or
above the BFE.
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-15
Appendix B: Employee Preparedness Information
Flood Map - How to Get One
Flood maps are usually kept on file at your local county courthouse, municipal office or library. Once you have located the
maps for your area, be sure to record the panel number on each map should you need to obtain additional information from
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). FEMA provides copies of flood maps for a nominal fee. To obtain a
copy of the current flood map for a specific community, community status book and the Flood Insurance Manual, you can
call FEMA’s Map Service Center toll free at 1-800-358-9616 or write:
Map Service Center (MSC)
PO Box 1038
Jessup, MD 20794-1038
Source: Florida Insurance Council from information provided by the Insurance Information Institute, the American Insurance
Association and Property Casualty Insurers Association of America.
HURRICANE MYTHS
MYTH: Florida was hit four times in 2004, it will never happen again in our lifetime.
FACT: The chances Florida will experience four major hurricanes again in one year is remote. The chance of one or two – is very
real. And if a major hurricane hits Tampa Bay, it won’t matter if there is only one storm this season! Be Prepared!
MYTH: Hurricanes do not impact inland counties.
FACT: Hurricane winds and rain affect large areas. Just ask our Polk County residents (impacted three times in 2004) or your
neighbors who evacuated to Orlando from Hurricane Charley. Inland flooding was a major problem in our region from exiting
storms Frances and Jeanne.
MYTH: There is nothing we can do. If the hurricane comes, it will blow everything away.
FACT: Take the time to protect your home and chances are, you will suffer far less damage in a hurricane.
MYTH: Protecting my home is too expensive.
FACT: Protection can get expensive but there are cost-effective options. Hurricane panels and shutters, and newly developed
screen, mesh and fabric products can protect your home and provide safety for your family. Contact FLASH for more
information: 1-800-221-SAFE.
MYTH: Why protect our home? That is what insurance is for.
FACT: Insurance is fine, but a house that survives a hurricane is better. It is safer for your family and easier to recover. Currently,
there are still thousands of families in the State of Florida displaced because of the 2004 hurricanes.
MYTH: Leave your windows open on one side of the house to reduce the “pressure”.
FACT: It’s an old wives’ tale. If you let wind in your house, it’s going to have to get out. It will find the weakest link and explode
it.
MYTH: Tape your windows to prevent them from breaking and flying into the house.
FACT: Putting masking tape on your windows is a waste of time that should be spent on real protection.
MYTH: With tie-downs and storm shutters, my mobile home is safe.
FACT: Mobile homes – even new ones – cannot withstand more than minimal hurricane winds. Use tie-downs and shutters but
have evacuation plans.
MYTH: You need to buy a chain saw.
FACT: If you don’t already know how to use a chain saw safely, hurricane cleanup is not the time to try to teach yourself.
Recently, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports more Americans kill or injure themselves after the storm during cleanup
than as a direct result of the hurricane winds and flooding.
Source: FLASH (www.flash.org); National Weather Service, Ruskin, FL
Florida Business Disaster Supply Kit
B-16