As Hurricane season makes landfall, Louisiana urged to began preparing

Jakori Madison, Lafayette Daily Advertiser
·2 min read

Hurricane season began June 1 and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry is urging Louisianans to begin preparing.

Historical records show that the majority of tropical storms and hurricanes that have affected Louisiana occurred from mid-August through early October, including hurricanes Laura, Delta, Zeta and Ida, which resulted in an estimated $579 million in losses to the state's fisheries infrastructure, revenues, and biological resources, according to a study.

Tips for staying safe during hurricane season
Tips for staying safe during hurricane season

South Louisiana residents need a plan in the event of a hurricane, officials said. A game plan can help families decide how to communicate with each other and where to go. A plan should be written down, shared and a copy kept in an evacuation kit. If authorities advise evacuation, residents should leave immediately with their evacuation kits and plans in place

An evacuation kit can include:

  • Cash

  • Water

  • Perishable food, canned fruits and canned vegetables, and bread

  • Toilet paper, paper towels, paper cups, plates, plastic utensils

  • Flashlight and extra batteries

  • Prescriptions and non-prescription medicines

  • Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children

  • First aid kit

Officials also recommend preparing your home by removing debris and securing large objects around your home. This includes removing dead trees or cutting back tree limbs hanging over homes or businesses.

According to the Louisiana Department of Insurance, flood damage resulting from heavy rain or storm surge is not covered in standard homeowners policies, and there is typically a 30-day waiting period before a flood insurance policy takes effect. Therefore, pre- and post-hurricane documentation is extremely important for insurance compensation and recovery assistance. It is critical to document the inventory of everything before a disaster occurs by taking photos, videos, or make written lists with descriptions.

Important Papers and Identification (stored in a waterproof container)

  • Driver's license or personal identification

  • Social Security card

  • Proof of residence (deed or lease)

  • Insurance policies

  • Birth and marriage certificates

  • Stocks, bonds and other negotiable certificates

  • Wills, deeds and copies of recent tax returns

“Living in Louisiana, we understand that being impacted by a hurricane is not a question of if, but when. Your best tool against a hurricane is preparation,” Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., said.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has forecasted near-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic this hurricane season, runs through Nov. 30.

Strain said preparing early can minimize the potential impact of your home, your family, or your business due to a storm.

“I’m urging everyone to have a plan in place for you, your family, your property, and your pets/livestock for this upcoming hurricane season,” he said.

For more planning resources, visit getagameplan.org/make-a-plan/.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Tips for staying safe during this year's hurricane season