Preparing Your Home for Hurricane Milton: Essential Tips and Closure Announcement
As a Florida home builder, we understand the importance of safety and preparation when facing hurricane threats. With Hurricane Milton approaching, it’s crucial to secure your home and ensure your loved ones are safe. Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for the storm, along with important information about our upcoming closures.
Hurricane Milton Closure Announcement
Due to Hurricane Milton, our models and offices will be closed on the following dates:
In Southwest Florida:
- Closure: All day on Tuesday, October 8, Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10.
In Central, Central East, Northeast and Southeast Florida:
- Closure: Closing at 2 PM on Tuesday, October 8, and all day on Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10.
In Northwest Florida (Gulf Side):
- Note: There will be no closures in this area.
Please prioritize your safety and adhere to local emergency guidelines.
Essential Tips for Securing Your Home
1. Create a Hurricane Preparedness Kit
Make sure to assemble a kit that includes:
- Non-perishable food and water for at least three days
- Flashlights and batteries
- First-aid supplies
- Medications and personal hygiene items
- Important documents (in a waterproof container)
2. Secure Windows and Doors
- Install Storm Shutters: If you have storm shutters, ensure they are properly secured.
- Board Up: Use plywood to cover windows and doors if you don’t have shutters.
- Secure Sliding Glass Doors: Use a dowel or metal rod in the track of sliding doors to prevent them from being opened.
- Sand Bags: If you’re in a flood zone, use sand bags for doorways. See this helpful image from a local website.
3. Clear Debris
- Now is not the time to trim trees. However, you can remove any dead or weak branches that could fall during high winds and store in garage if collection is not available.
- Ensure that your yard is clear of debris that could become projectiles.
- Ensure nothing is stacked near storm drains.
4. Secure Outdoor Items
- Bring in patio furniture, grills, and any decorative items that could be blown away.
- Store items in a garage or shed if possible.
5. Prepare Your Vehicle
- Fill up your gas tank in case you need to evacuate.
- Ensure your car is in good working condition and that you have a basic emergency kit inside.
6. Develop an Evacuation Plan
- Know your evacuation routes and have a plan for where to go.
- Keep pets in mind and be sure to have their food and necessary medications stocked.
7. Stay Informed
- Charge any portable chargers.
- Keep a battery-operated weather radio on hand to receive updates and alerts.
- Follow local news and weather channels for real-time information on Hurricane Milton’s path. For Brevard County, for example, you can follow BrevardEOC on Facebook, X (Twitter) and also visit their website.
- Mike’s Weather Page is a fantastic resource, regardless of which county you reside. Follow him on Facebook for live updates.
As Hurricane Milton approaches, it’s vital to take proactive measures to protect your home and loved ones. At Holiday Builders, we are committed to your safety. We appreciate your understanding during our temporary closures and encourage everyone to follow safety protocols. Together, we can weather the storm and look forward to more sunny Florida days!
Stay safe,
The Holiday Builders Team
