June is an exciting time in The Bahamas! The beaches are full, mangoes and avocado pears are plentiful, and the harbour is filled with kids learning to sail-the official sport of The Bahamas! But June is also the official start of hurricane season in The Bahamas. While we are fortunate not to experience hurricanes frequently, it’s crucial to be prepared for the possibility of a storm and ensure the safety of ourselves and our loved ones. In this blog post, we'll provide you with some friendly and informative tips to help you prepare for hurricane season in The Bahamas. 

1. Plan Ahead

The first and most crucial step in preparing for a hurricane is to have a plan in place. Take some time to discuss with your family what you will do in the event of a hurricane. Determine a safe location to go to and make a checklist of essential items to bring with you.

2. Stay Informed

Keep up to date with the latest weather forecasts and alerts from the National Hurricane Center. This will help you make informed decisions about potential relocations or evacuations if necessary. Keep an eye on local news channels, radio stations, or reliable weather websites for accurate information. 

3. Prepare Your Home

Ensure the safety of your home by making the necessary preparations. Check that all windows and doors are hurricane impact resistant and sealed properly. If you use hurricane shutters, ensure they are in good condition and easily accessible. Trimming trees and removing any objects that could become hazards during strong winds. Taking these steps will minimize potential damage to your property. 

4. Stock Up On Essential Supplies

Now is the time to gather the essential supplies you’ll need during hurricane season. Have on hand an ample supply of water and non-perishable food as well as flashlights, batteries, candles, and battery-operated fans. Backup power banks for charging phones and other electronics are also a good idea. It is wise to ensure you have supplies to last for a few days, as it may take time to access supplies immediately after a major storm or during other disruptions like power outages. 

5. Create A Weatherproof Emergency Kit

Prepare a weatherproof knapsack containing important documents such as passports, birth certificates, and other valuable items you want to secure in case of evacuation. Additionally, pack an emergency kit with first aid supplies, a weatherproof flashlight, extra batteries, a full water bottle, light non-perishable food or snacks, and any necessary medications. Being prepared will give you peace of mind during challenging times. 

6. Plan For Communication Disruptions

During a hurricane, communication channels can be disrupted. Plan in advance how you will stay connected with loved ones. Consider having battery-operated handheld radios, VHFs, or a satellite phone if cell service or the internet becomes unavailable. 

By following these friendly and informative tips, you can eliminate the stress that hurricane season may bring and ensure the safety of yourself and your family. Remember to plan ahead, stay informed, prepare your home, stock up on essential supplies, create a weatherproof emergency kit, be ready for power outages, and plan for communication disruptions. With proper planning and preparation, you can enjoy all the fun that June brings in The Bahamas while staying safe and secure.