September is usually a very active month in the Atlantic with weather coming off the coast of Africa. We need to stay aware of weather conditions and get prepared.
Hopefully, you already have gathered supplies. You will need a power source (gas, propane, etc.) for your generator. Be sure you have a 9-to-10-day supply of fuel. Be sure to know how long your generator will run on a tank of fuel and plan accordingly. Now is the time to start your generator and run it for about 15 minutes. If you have problems with your generator, we have someone who will help you, but they probably will not be available at the last minute. Call a member of the EPC committee (See page 40 for the full list of names). Someone will guide you to the appropriate person.
Check your shutters. Do you have everything that you need to “shutter up?” If your shutters use keys, bolts, nuts, etc., please locate this hardware. Those of you with electric shutters need to check them. Be sure wasps, bees, etc., have not built nests in them. If you are physically unable and have no one in the area to help you, we have those who will help you. Please call us and get yourself on the “Shutter Up List” now.
If you have gone north for the season. Be sure you have designated someone to prepare your home.
If you have not filled out the EPC survey, please do so. The surveys are available at the Clubhouse, in the lobby between the Lake House restaurant and the multi-purpose room. There is a box where you can leave your completed survey, or you can drop it off in the HOA Office.
Our Block Captains should have dropped off a yellow envelope for those of you who are “Sheltering in Place.” There are instructions in this yellow envelope. These envelopes should be opened, and directions followed when NOAA has warned that SW Florida is in line to take a direct hit from a serious weather event.
Our Block Captains from the EPC committee have been distributing Lee County Hazard Guides. If you do not have one, they can be picked up at Publix. This booklet has a lot of helpful information.
You should have pictures or a video of your home and all of its contents—both inside and out for insurance purposes.
Make sure you have a good supply of water, nonperishable food, medications, pet food, etc.
Hopefully, we will not need to resort to our emergency stashes, but it is best to be prepared. We are here to assist you.
