WASHINGTON, D.C. — From hurricanes to flash floods, disaster can strike when you least expect it.
“Where am I going to go if I have a few days’ notice? Where am I going to go to keep my family safe? And then what am I going to do after the storm,” said Mike Watkins, vice president of operations for Team Rubicon.
“Team Rubicon is a veteran-led humanitarian organization. It serves communities before, during and after disasters in crisis,” Watkins said. “Hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, fires. We send volunteers to help community members free of charge to help them recover quicker after disaster strikes.”
With hurricane season underway, Watkins said preparation starts at home. A few simple steps now can save time, money and even lives.
“Prepare for a loss of power, because that’s going to be the most prevalent thing that will happen to tens of thousands of people,” Watkins said. “Looking at what documents you need, and what you need to keep safe. As far as insurance and that type of stuff, by just taking their cell phone or somebody’s cell phone and walking around your property and digitally documenting all your belongings as well as what you have inside and outside your home.”
He also said familiarizing yourself with your home’s shutoff valves for electricity, water and gas is crucial.
“Between fire and water, those are the things that can damage your house the most,” Watkins said.
Preventive tree maintenance can help avoid costly repairs and even save lives.
“Make sure that those trees that are close to your home or have the potential to fall on your home are removed,” Watkins said.
Watkins stresses to avoid last-minute preparation. Having an emergency route, a go-bag, fuel, chargers and a way to communicate ready when disaster strikes can make all the difference.
“How am I going to make myself and my family, one safe, but then more comfortable during the aftermath,” Watkins said.
