Gulf Coast Bracing for Hurricane Sally 
Over the weekend, a tropical system formed in the Gulf of Mexico. We are anticipating landfall of Hurricane Sally along the Gulf of Mexico near the MS/ AL border. The main threat to our area is flash flooding. As rain, flash flooding, and coastal flooding are the main threats with this storm, we are not recommending installation of hurricane shutters at this time. Rain is expected today through Wednesday as this storm slowly approaches the coast. We will continue to monitor progress and update you as possible. 

Below, you will find a copy of the information that was sent out to your tenants this morning in preparation for the storm. Email is the best way to reach us at this time as we may not be able to make it in the office due to the weather. 

Check our website and our facebook for future updates.
www.PensacolaRealtyMasters.com
www.Facebook.com/RealtyMastersofFL
Closely Monitoring Hurricane Sally
We are closely monitoring Hurricane Sally. Pensacola is now in the forecast cone, and we are currently in a Tropical Storm Warning. Wind, rain and flooding will occur in our area through Wednesday of this week. You should make preparations now for a potential flash flooding event in our area.

Please begin preparations now and continue to monitor  the following weather sites for updates:  National Hurricane Center,  The Weather Channel, and   National Weather Service. Also, monitor our website for updates. 

Hurricane Sally Information

We are currently under a Tropical Storm Warning, Flash Flood Watch, River Flood Warning, and a Coastal Flood Advisory until mid-week. Please monitor the local weather forecasts for updates.

Given the slow moving nature of this storm, this will be a long-lasting rain event which has the potential to cause significant flooding even here in the Pensacola area. We are mainly concerned about flash flooding as we are anticipating as much as 15 inches of rain. 

before the storm

At this time, we are advising the following preparations:

  • Bring outside items inside that can become a projectile. We could experience wind gusts in excess of 35 miles per hour and these items can break a window or damage a neighboring property. 
  • At this time, we are not advising storm shutters as we are not worried about high impact from winds. 
  • Make sure gutter downspouts are not clogged to allow for proper water flow. 
  • Park your vehicles away from trees and low lying areas. 
  • Make a plan with your family as to what you will do should your home begin to flood.


Flooding Information

If you live in a low lying area, near any body of water, or in an area prone to flooding, please stay up to date with any evacuation orders from local authorities. Follow Escambia County Emergency Management for updates on  Facebook  and on  their website. We expect the flooding to get severe on Tuesday and carry into Wednesday. 


If you start to experience flooding in your home, the professionals advise the following:

  • Shut off electrical power and natural gas or propane tanks in your home to avoid fire, electrocution, or explosions. Unplug appliances. 
  • Wear rubber soled boots so you can reduce your risk of electrocution. Wear water proof jackets. Make sure you have enough protective gear for your family. 
  • Move valuable items and papers/documents to higher grounds.
  • Be ready to evacuate if needed. 


Remember, it is not safe to drive through flooded areas. Stay out of floodwater as hidden hazards are often present. Here is some additional information from the CDC in regards to protecting yourself in floodwaters

Renter's Insurance
If you do have renters insurance, you should have an inventory of items that you own in the home including a list with serial and model numbers as well as photos or a video to document. Insurance experts recommend routinely taking a detailed inventory of your possessions. Take some time to complete this over the weekend if you have renter's insurance.  
 
In the event of a storm, your personal property and possessions are not covered by the homeowner's insurance. You must have a renters insurance policy for your contents. Unfortunately, most renter's insurance policies do not cover flood damages unless you purchased an extra flood insurance policy. 

Prepping Your Pool
Do you have a pool at your property? Please continue to monitor your pool water level and contact us should you have any concerns about the water level in your pool.  

Here's a video from our friends at Pinch-a-Penny discussing how to prepare your pool for severe weather.    
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6N0fVCHAbwE&feature=youtu.be  

We may have special instructions for the pool company servicing your pool regarding the level of water in your pool as a preventative measure. 

Please reach out to us or the pool company with questions. 
Should
 we evacuate? Where are local

 shelters? Are
 we
 in a flood zone?

Check flood zones and evacuation zones now. Do not wait. 
 

Search Evacuation Zones
Do you know if you live in an evacuation zone? Use this link to search for your property or check the maps below.

If you Choose to Evacuate
  • Before evacuating, you must turn off the power and water supply to the home. Shut off your breakers (except to the fridge unless it is emptied) and turn off all water valves at sinks, the water heater, and behind your toilet. Please call your utility company or our office with questions.
  • Be sure to throw away any perishable items prior to evacuating.
  • Never leave any type of pets behind if you evacuate.  
  • Should you evacuate for a storm, we ask you to email our office to notify us.  This will help our team complete disaster assessments more efficiently. You can notify us here:  http://pensacolarealtymasters.com/hurricane-evacuation-report

Search Local Shelters
Be prepared in case you or a loved one needs to relocate to a shelter.  

Search Flood Zones
Do you live in a flood zone? Search FEMA's site and type in your address. Zone X is most desirable and while it denotes a minimal flood risk, the risk of flooding is always possible. 
Personal Preparations Before a Hurricane
  • Plan ahead. If you don't already have a plan, make one right now. It's not too late.
  • Listen to the news! Stay informed at all times. Have a battery-operated radio and batteries.
  • Know your evacuation routes. Determine where you would go and how you would get there.
  • Make sure to include your pets in your evacuation plans as most shelters and many hotels do not allow for pets. You cannot leave any pets (including kenneled or caged animals) in your home when you evacuate!
  • If you plan on staying in your home, make sure you are prepared with supplies to last 3-14 days. Learn the location of nearby shelters in case you need to leave your home after a storm
  • Fill all vehicles with gas and get cash from the ATM
  • Locate and secure all important papers, including insurance policies, wills, license, etc.
  • Talk to your children about how and when to call 911.
  • Make sure you have an operable fire extinguisher and everyone knows how to use it.
  • Establish an emergency meeting place in case your family gets separated.
  • Be aware of and abide by all evacuation orders, especially in low lying areas and coastal areas prone to flooding.
  • Park your vehicles somewhere safe, never under or near trees or in low lying areas prone to flooding.

Hurricane Preparedness Resources
Here's some additional resources for Hurricane Preparedness.
after the storm
Report Property Condition to Management
We will dispatch contractors on a triage system as soon as conditions and roads allow.

We ask that ALL residents make a condition report after a storm passes. You can make this report on our website here:  http://pensacolarealtymasters.com/report-hurricane-damages  It is important that we have these reports in writing and with photos to document damages so that we may safely, quickly, and efficiently compile and prioritize damages. As our phones will likely be down in the case of a storm, this is the BEST way to report your damages.  
  • Make sure to listen to officials for instructions. Typically, roads are not passable and curfews are imposed. For your safety, do not leave your home (unless necessary for your safety) until officials say it's okay to do so. For questions, call Emergency Management.
  • If damage to our area is severe, we will be inspecting properties as soon as possible after the storm. If your home appears to have damage and you are not home, we will enter the premises to document the damages.
  • Written authorization by the homeowner or landlord must be obtained prior to FEMA or any other person or agency installing a tarp on the roof! The tenant is not authorized to do any repairs without written authorization.
Safety After the Hurricane
Many of the injuries that occur because of tropical systems occur after the storm because of dangerous conditions. Here's a few tips to keep safe.  
  • Stay away from downed power lines. Do not attempt to walk or drive through flooded areas. Hidden debris can be very dangerous and depth levels deceiving.
  • Do not use generators inside the home or in an enclosed room. Carbon monoxide poisoning is deadly. Do not wire generators to the breaker box.
  • Do not attempt to climb on the roof or enter any other hazardous situation.
  • Without power, you will find yourself more exposed to insects. Protect yourself and family from bugs by wearing insect repellent.
  • Additionally, without power, you may find yourself subject to heat exhaustion. Be sure to stay hydrated and evacuate the property if it gets too hot. 
  • Be aware of rivers, creeks, retention ponds, and other water around you. Do not drive through or walk through flood waters. A mere 6 inches of water can cause a dangerous current. Should you find yourself in flood waters, be cautious of electrical wires or power lines and seek higher ground. 
Important Contact Information
Save this important contact information. 

Realty Masters Emergency Contact Information
Remember we do have an emergency line that can be reached by texting or calling (850) 512-6019. Please call 9-1-1 should you experience a life threatening emergency.
Questions or Concerns about your Property?
If you have any questions or concerns about your rental property, please respond to this email to reach a supervisor or reach out to your contact. We look forward to hearing from you. 
Realty Masters of Florida
4400 Bayou Blvd 58B, Pensacola, FL 32503
www.PensacolaRealtyMasters.com
Call us Monday- Saturday at 850.473.3983
Info@PensacolaRealtyMasters.com
Hours Mon-Fri 8a - 5p | Sat 8a -2p 
Emergency Line (850) 512-6019