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June 1 marks the start of hurricane season. Across the country, people worry about whether they are prepared to weather the storm should Mother Nature decide to take a destructive path.

How Does The Village at Gainesville Prepare?

Details are crucial. Residents are consulted, associates are informed and contingency plans are finalized.

In the event of an emergency, associates operate on an “all hands on deck mentality.” Josh Fuller, facilities manager, says, “Our goal is to keep business as usual. Our associates and their families move-in during emergency weather to maintain consistency in resident services.”

A system of generators are serviced well in advance of the season to provide electricity for emergency safety features like alarms, critical circuitry, electricity in the main common areas and cooling in the event air conditioning is not available.

Resident town hall meetings are held in the spring to provide a forum for questions. During a storm, residents are kept fully informed with campus-wide phone calls, the internal cable station and print announcements to provide a means of communication no matter the circumstance. Resident families are kept informed with frequent updates to the website and Facebook.

Without a community of support, hurricane season may seem overwhelming. Here are a few tips our facilities manager offers to help all seniors get prepared to weather the storm.

How Can I Plan Ahead?

Start Early. Make sure you have the necessary supplies in advance. Waiting until the last minute or just before a storm is not only stressful but may be more difficult as demand for similar goods will skyrocket.

Make a Kit. Your supplies kit should include non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, a portable radio and batteries. Don’t forget pet food if you have a furry friend.

Think Long-Term. Consider your medications when planning for hurricane season. Consult your medical professional should any of your medical needs require electricity. Ask if there are alternatives or generators you can rent or purchase in the event of a power outage. Request refills to ensure you have the medicine you need should you be unable to get to the pharmacy during a storm.

Plan a Space. Identify a safe place in your home in case there are strong winds. Find a fully enclosed space without windows, which is the furthest room from other doors and windows and is on the lowest floor of you home. Place your kit in this room.

Stay Connected. During the storm, consult the local emergency management office for updates. Consider using social media channels like Facebook or Twitter to stay informed. If you live alone, make a plan with loved ones. Set check-in deadlines and identify an emergency contact that lives near you. Consider joining friends or neighbors in the event of a storm.

Want to learn about more ways to stay safe? Join us for Senior S.A.F.E Day on June 27 at 11:30 a.m. For more details or to RSVP visit: http://thevillageonline.com/event

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