Tampa Here Comes Our 1st Tropical Storm

I grew up on an island in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay and lived through many storms blowing through...then moved to VA Beach, then Florida. I can't count the number of hurricanes I ridden out, so I am not panicking about a tropical storm this week. However, I've notice that some of the buyers I've worked with this year from the north are getting a bit apprehensive so I wanted to do a quick blog of some advice. PLUS my husband was the emergency manager for the local hospital with the city of Norfolk for several years, so I have a ton of knowledge about storms.

IF this was going to be a huge hurricane ... get out of your mobile home, gas up your car, get some cash, bottle water, Propane & a propane stove (not to be used inside), and be prepared to eat the contents of your freezer or frig if you go without power for 3 - 4 days or more (in VA Beach we had a hurricane that took down power for almost 2 weeks in some places, also make sure your meds are filled, and all your papers in a secure area (and have a plan for your pets if you need to evacuate). That being said, that is NOT this storm or needed for this week.

My advice for this week....
1) Do NOT try to drive though high water or go down roads you know that will flood easily.
2) Pick up loose items in your yard that may blow away.
3) Do not plan on going out in the height of the storm, unless you have to.
4) Check on your neighbors, especially if they are elderly. Seriously, pay it forward, just check in after the storm to make sure they are alright.
5) If you regularly lose power with little storms, prepare to lose electricity and prepare flashlights, batteries, backup phone chargers, and clean water.

I would love to know if anyone else has some practical advice.