Leaving Your Island
Whether you are leaving your island for a vacation, for the season or to avoid a storm there are things you can do to make closing up and leaving your island quickly, efficiently and properly. For many island owners this means flipping a few switches to turn of utilities and activate automated systems such as heating and security systems. Nonetheless, there are some things to keep in mind when preparing to leave your island.
Plan ahead: Have a “to do” list readily available that reminds you what you need to do before leaving and what to take with you. On rare occasions you may have to leave your island in a hurry. Since there may be little advance warning prepare ahead of time what to bring, where to go and how to get there.
Have a grab and go bag prepared.In the event of an emergency you may not have time to pack up your possessions. Therefore it is important to have an emergency bag prepared in the event that you have to leave your island quickly. Something to consider keeping in your grab and go bag include.
- Weather resistant clothing
- Pair of sturdy boots
- Copy of all documents, certificates, deeds and other important information
- Bottle(s) of water
- First aid kit
- Protein/energy bars.
- Copy of emergency numbers and other contact information.
When shutting down your island the most impotant things you need to attend to are natural gas lines, water supply, and electricity. Leaving any of these utilities unattended on your island for weeks or months can be dangerous. Therefore complete the following before leaving your island.
Natural Gas: If your home uses or relies on natural gas important that you shut it off before leaving. Gas leaks can be very hazardous, in rare cases causing explosions and fires. Talk to your gas provider and get instructions for shutting it down. Most valves are located outside of your home and can be turned off with a wrench.
Water: If water is being pumped into your home and the line cracks the water could flood into your home. To reduce the chances of this happening shut off the main water line coming into your home before you leave therefore this reduces the chances of your home flooding while away.
Electricity: In the event of a flood or storm surge live electrical outlets can become a danger. If flooding is possible locate the main circuit box in your home and shut off the main breaker. We have heard stories of plugs shorting out, starting a brush fire and not only the home but the whole island almost going up in flames
Following these tips will allow you to safely, quickly and efficiently close up your island, whether you are leaving in a hurry or just for a few days away.
