It was a week ago that I penned a blog about the economic impacts of Hurricane Harvey. This evening, following the modification to the several hurricane models, I find myself having contact the members of the “Alpha Team” and implementing “Stage 1” of our hurricane preparedness plan. As you can see from the chart below, we are “hopeful” that one of the outlying tracks will be Irma’s course, but, we’re realistic enough to know that it’s time to make serious preparations for this hurricane.
One of the incredible developments that we have welcomed with our conversion two months ago, has been the ability to provide service to you that is wholly independent of being plugged into a wall. Between vehicle based WiFi, Smartphones, and laptop computers, we can, literally, conduct business from anywhere in the world that we have either a cellular or satellite uplink or some other WiFi connection. We have solar recharging capabilities for all our devices so as long as there is the ability to connect to the internet, we have the ability to review, monitor, and execute account transactions.
We are evaluating whether we will remain in South Florida for what could be a catastrophic storm. Our contingency plan calls for evacuation to Atlanta, generally two-three days before a storm strike so if we are going to go, it will be later this week. While the “Bravado-guy” says “Ride it out” the “Common-sense guy” says “Get Out Of Harm’s Way to Fight Another Day.” I think it is quite likely that we will button our properties up and head out to Atlanta. Irrespective of where we are, we will forward the phones to our cellular phones and our service to you should be uninterrupted.
Finally, please be careful with this storm if you are in South Florida. These simple steps should help you prepare for and weather the storm if you’re not going to evacuate the area:
- Know what evacuation zone you’re in. Generally, the barrier islands are Zone A or B. Decide well in advance of storm conditions whether you are going to heed mandatory evacuation orders or try to ride a storm out. When conditions are at their worst, you cannot expect any help from first responders.
- Have a plan. Decide where you’re going to ride the storm out. Once in play, stick to it. Factors to consider are: A) The safety of your shelter. B) Your physical condition and whether your location provides you with the kind of safety you need if your physical condition deteriorates. C) What supplies will you need in an environment that is hot, humid, dark, and may be exposed to the elements. Make sure that you have plenty of water. This is important for your hydration, sanitation, and nutritional needs. D) What your backup plan is so that if “Plan A” deteriorates, you have a “Plan B.”
- Let someone else know what your plans are and keep them updated so that they can track your progress. You can “Check In” on some of the social media sites to let people know that you are “ok” once the crisis has passed.
Just remember that in south Florida, there are another 5 Million people thinking much the same way you are. So before you jump on 95 or the Turnpike to head north, make sure you’ve got adequate supplies and have prepared for the journey which is likely to be fraught with some danger. Look to alternate routes, sometimes the road less traveled is the better road.
If we can assist you in any way, please let us know. By Tuesday evening, we will have completed the shuttering of our respective 4-5 homes, will be provisioned, and will be deciding to evacuate, or not. Post storm, should it strike us, we will be back at work and ready to help you in any way that we can.
Best regards,
Curt Lyman
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