As we navigate the second half of Florida’s hurricane season in 2020, we mark International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction on October 13th. It’s a day to celebrate how families and homes around the world are reducing their exposure to disasters, and a day to raise awareness of how to manage the risks that a natural disaster can bring.
By natural disaster, we mean an event of nature that kills over 10 people or injures at least 100. These catastrophic events destroy property, cause loss of life, displace millions, and lead to severe economic costs. Examples include earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, floods, landslides, wildfires, and volcanic eruptions.
Here in the US, we all remember the devastation of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which is now ranked as the costliest disaster ever, since the hurricane caused $200 billion in damage and sadly killed 1,200 people. We also think of the 2020 wildfire season which caused choking smoke to blanket the west coast and exceeded 4 million acres burned.
Here in Florida, we know only too well the disastrous impact of hurricanes, and wildfires, which threaten homes and lives. At Matter Home Inspections, we want to raise awareness of what we can do to keep each other safe.
How to Stay Safe
Thankfully, there are things that we can do to reduce the risk of disasters. We can make the infrastructure more climate-resilient by using building materials that are better equipped to stand up to winds, water, and earthquakes. We can also educate ourselves on disaster preparation because when we know what to do in the event of an emergency, this reduces fatalities. These days we also have advanced early warning system technology, so the ability to predict disasters and warn the public is greater – for example, more advanced weather prediction. We can use this technology to watch hurricanes form and track their likely course.
Check out our blog on how to protect your home from hurricane season, with tips on how to stay safe, and keep your home and your loved ones protected. After all, preparation is key. Also on our blog, we featured Will Your Home Withstand Florida’s Hurricane Season, where we explored the importance of a wind mitigation inspection to determine the appropriateness of your home’s construction in the event of strong winds. We look for construction features that have been shown to reduce losses in hurricanes.
How to mark International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction
On International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction, you may hear and see media announcements and events that focus on preparation for a natural disaster. Many communities also plan events such as tree plantings and educational seminars which are geared at spreading awareness.
International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction is the right time to make an emergency response plan if you don’t already have one. Your emergency plan should be discussed and practiced with your family, with everyone clear on their role, and responsibility.
Safe as houses
Your home is your safe place. Let’s keep it that way. It’s important to protect your home all year round, not just in hurricane or wildfire season. Call us to schedule a home visit, and we can make sure that you and your family are ready, no matter what mother nature throws at us.
