Hurricane Matthew Safety Tips

Florida residents are busy scrambling to prepare for the landfall of what will be one of the worst hurricanes in history to strike the United States. Hurricane Matthew is already battering the shores of the Caribbean islands with winds over 110 miles per hour, and is still picking up steam as it approaches our state’s eastern coast.

While we here in the Tampa area are not directly in the hurricane’s path, we will still likely experience some extremely wet weather and rainfall due to the storm’s effect on the areas around its limits. Likewise, it is important to be ready for the storm to possibly change direction and start heading for Tampa at any time.

Prepare Evacuation Supplies

While Tampa is currently under a “tropical storm watch” advisory, it isn’t a bad idea to check your emergency supplies and stock up on what you may not have. This includes a supply of bottled water, flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and a fully-stocked first-aid kit. Be sure to have these things easily accessible in the event an evacuation advisory is issued.

Protect Your Windows

Your windows will have considerable trouble withstanding hurricane force winds and flying debris. Therefore, it’s crucial to save your property by either putting up storm shutters or plywood boards. This is a far more durable solution to prevent elements from pouring into your home after you are gone.

Plan Your Evacuation Routes

Know the fastest ways out of town if an evacuation order is given, and anticipate a considerable amount of traffic, since you won’t be the only one leaving. Be sure to be efficient and get on the road quickly to avoid as much of the traffic as possible.

Get Assistance with Injuries

If you are injured through the negligence of another and believe you may have a case, review your legal options with a skilled Clearwater personal injury attorney as soon as possible. A skilled lawyer will be able to assist you with obtaining financial relief for medical expenses while dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane.

Attorney Bryan Caulfield, Esq. has been Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Florida State Bar. His excellence in a courtroom, dedicated client service, and outstanding knowledge and experience have earned him this honor bestowed upon less than two percent of all attorneys in the state.