Galveston Real Estate

Living in Galveston, Texas means that hurricanes are a reality.  I would like to offer some advice in an effort to make this reality one that  you can manage and handle if needed.  As we track the first hurricane this season due to hit the gulf we realize that preparing for a hurricane is mandatory.  Dean may or may not effect Galveston but we need to make sure that we are ready for ANY storm during this and every future hurricane season.  Hurricane season does not end until November so lets be prepared for each and every storm.  Please follow our simple tips in an effort to make sure your family is ready.  The sooner you prepare the less lines you have to wait in once we get advised of an official hurricane watch or warning. 

At the start of hurricane season please check your home for the following supplies.  Please restock them when needed. 

• Flashlights and batteries that are in working order.  Please make sure you have an ample supply of extra batteries on hand.  After a storm the city will need time to restart city services such as water and electricity.  Be sure you are prepared for the time you will be using supplies both during and after the storm.
• Water.  The government advises that you have 3 gallons of water per person but I advise that you stock up on as much bottles water as possible.  There really is no downside to overstocking water.  After hurricane season you can use the ample supply.  Bottled water is relatively inexpensive so make sure you have plenty.  If you have an infant please be sure to stock the water needed for formula.  Keep in mind that you will be using this water for hygiene as well as fluid.  If you have pets PLEASE make sure you keep their water supply in mind.
• Battery operated radio and extra batteries specifically for the radio.  The radio will become your source for news and advisories.  When the electricity is out you will need your radio for all important alerts and information.  I would advise having 2 radios just as an extra precaution.  You can never be over prepared during hurricane season.
• Medication.   Pharmacies will be packed with patients filling prescriptions once a hurricane is a possibility.  Watch the news very closely.  If you can please make sure all prescriptions are filled and up to date.  You want to do as much as possible in an effort to be ready if an evacuation in necessary.  Standing in line at the pharmacy could become a very long wait.  Please make sure you have all first aid and over the counter precautions in mind.  Be sure to have a ample first aid kit on hand.
• Locate all important personal information.  Gather this information in a file that is easy to carry with you in the event of evacuation.  Please include the following information that will need to be with you at all times.  Drivers license, social security cards for the entire family, proof or residency (electric bills or any household bill proving your address), wills, deeds, insurance policies, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, etc.  Take anything that you have your personal information on.
• Visit the city office in an effort to get an ID tag for your car showing residency.  Galveston will provide a sticker to residence (displayed on your vehicle) showing that they are allowed on the island after a hurricane.  You can visit our city office in advance and provide documentation showing that you are a Galvestonian.  The city is very specific regarding who can and cannot enter the island after a storm.  This is done for the residence protection.
• Can Opener and Canned Food.  Please make sure you have 2 can openers on hand along with ample canned food items. 
• Baby formula and baby supplies.  Diapers, medicine, anything you will need for an infant or toddler.  Leave no stone unturned.  It is always better to have more of what you may need.  As a mother of a 3 and a 5 year old I know that I can and will use these items in the future if I don't use them during a storm.
• Generators.  Have a generator on hand if possible.  If you do not have to evacuate a generator may be needed in an effort to protect your cold food items or run various components in your household.
• Pre-cut plywood or storm shutters.  I would recommend any  Galveston resident looking into the purchase of storm shutters.  These shutters will simply close when needed.  If you do not have storm shutters they you MUST pre-cut plywood (1/2 inch) for each of your windows.  Often debris or items such as tree branches can come through a window due to high winds.  Please be prepared.  A good idea would be to drill holes and make anchors so that you can install the plywood quickly before a storm or evacuation.

What to do in the event of an evacuation?????

The government will decide when an evacuation is necessary.  Please follow the above steps so that your evacuation will be speedy.  Many of the times listed above will also apply to you preparing for an evacuation.  Please bring the following items when you evacuate.  Having these items on hand ahead of time will make your evacuation efficient.

• Water.  Lots of water.  Ample water for you and all of your family members.  Dogs, Cats and any pet apply to this rule.  Please over plan when it comes to water.
• Medications.  You may have a long ride and once you get to your destination you will need your medications.  Calling a pharmacy for a medication transfer will not be possible since your local pharmacy will be closed.  Bring a first aid kit along with over the counter medications.  You never know when this will be needed on your trip.  
• Sleeping bags, covers, pillows.  Bring all sleeping supplies for the trip and for comfort when you arrive at your destination.  This is a mandatory issue since your trip will be long in the event of mass evacuation.
• Flashlights and batteries.  Anything needed for car maintenance during your trip.  Extra gas and oil.  Please be sure to have your car in excellent condition at all times during hurricane season.  Have your oil and tires checked on a regular basis.
• Have your gas tank filled at all times during a hurricane watch or warning.  Not a bad idea to have extra gas on hand.
• Maps and a specific plan for your evacuation destination.  Call family members or friends in advance to arrange for a surprise trip during hurricane season.  Provide all your family and friends with your specific plans and phone numbers.  Make sure you map out alternate route in the event of road closures or clogging.
• Pet Food.  Of course your pets.  Please don't leave them behind unless forced to do so.
• Baby formula or diapers.  Any baby medications or supplies.
• Bring the personal information file that you have arranged to take with you in the event of an evacuation.

This blog in not meant to scare anyone.  It is meant to help you prepare.  As a real estate agent in Galveston I am always asked about hurricanes.  I think they deter many possible residence because often we are not educated about what to do when facing a storm.  I have lived in Galveston all my life.  My family has lived through, and of course survived two major hurricanes (plus many tropical storms).  They were prepared and you should be to.  Make sure you have flood and windstorm insurance if you own property in Galveston, Texas.  I am often asked if it is hard to obtain this coverage due to the possibility of a hurricane.  The answer is no.  Insurance is based on your credit and your personal information so obtaining coverage will depend on the applicant.  Home owners in Galveston have had this coverage for years and will continue to do so.

Be prepared for any storm during hurricane season.  Your advanced preparation will save you headache and time when and if it is needed during hurricane advisories.  Living in Galveston is a pleasure.  Dealing with hurricanes are a fact.  A fact that is manageable if you are prepared.

Thanks for your time.