Some things every homeowner should have ready
I watched the summer unfold, resisting the urge to use my blog to remind beach goers and visitors to my beloved Huntington Beach (and it's many events) to come prepared for long days, lots of traffic and parking congestion, and ultimately not to forget to apply sun screen for their little ones. This was no easy accomplishment, as I watched routinely many families walk longer and farther from the beach than they anticipated, stroller in hand, with no hint of sun screen application or additional water. With the typical August into September heat-and-humidity wave in full effect, I have shown remarkable restraint, though if I were to be completely transparent I've simply been busy with my own corner of the most promising summer in residential real estate to come along in six years.
If you own a home, or want to, be prepared for emergencies
Another thing I noticed apart from the real estate market improving this summer; the apocalyptic summer blockbuster movie. I feel at least somewhat vindicated that my underlying sense of preparedness is somewhat echoed in the subject matter of Hollywood's summer movie fare. I may not know how to stave off hordes of marauding zombies (they've gotten into my television, too, I've noticed over the last four years), genetically altered super-mercenaries, planet-conquering aliens, or the like, but I can make some good suggestions for coping with more "real-life" potential disasters; suggestions which everyone who has or wants to own a home should take note.
Essentials everyone should have whether you rent or own your home
I read a fantastic article published by Smart and Final some months back, which indicates what no home, apartment, or dwelling of any description should be without, set aside for the real world crisis Hollywood's metaphorical monsters only represent on screen:
- A week's supply of water, given one gallon per person per day.
- A complete first aid kit including a first aid book and an extra supply of any essential medication
- Non-perishable food (Military "Meals Ready to Eat" MRE's come to mind), with can opener and preferably plastic utensils and disposable plates
- Extra set of baby food and supplies including formula, bottle, appropriate soap, wipes and diapers
- Camping supplies such as tent, blankets, sleeping bags, portable stove/grill, cutting knives, tools, radio, batteries and flashlights can double as disaster preparedness items
- Food, water and restraints/leash/carrier for pets
- Fire Extinguisher types A, B, C or combination thereof
- Extra clothes for all, including sturdy shoes and heavy gloves
- Toilet paper, not to be understated, along with all relevant hygiene supplies
- Duct tape
Your home is supposed to be a safe place for you and your family (as well as the primary asset in the 'bank of you'), but it can't protect you from everything. Otherwise, you wouldn't be required by lenders to purchase homeowner's insurance! Being prepared is not just a boy scout trait; in a world of life-claiming tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, fires, landslides and man made catastrophe, preparedness is a responsibility.
Ann Stefanucci
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