Projects That Protect

Mitigation 

The effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters. 

In order for mitigation to be effective, we need to take action now - before the next disaster - to reduce human and financial consequences later by analyzing risk, reducing risk, and insuring against risk. 

It is important to know that disasters can happen at any time and any place. If we are not prepared, the consequences can be fatal.

Why Mitigate?

• For every dollar invested it is estimated to save $4 in potential losses
• May protect your loved ones, homes and businesses from harm
• Helps a community recover more quickly from a disaster

How We Mitigate

By coordinating with the State of Florida and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after a disaster to get federal funding to help rebuild stronger

How Can You Mitigate?

By making a plan.

• Assess your risks to determine what you/your residence may be vulnerable to (such as flooding, storm surge from hurricanes, high winds and power outages)
• Buy insurance to help protect yourself financially if a disaster hits
• Protect your windows and doors from high winds with storm shutters and impact windows & doors
• Have tie down straps installed in your roof
• If you must evacuate, know where you plan to go, how you will get there and what you need to take
• Avoid “informal” construction. This is construction done by someone without a license or construction that does not follow local building codes.
• Knowing your flood zone gives you important information on how to rebuild your home. This will also help you save money on flood insurance. 
• To protect your personal property, you can modify residential portions of your home to ensure that electrical equipment, such as water heaters and fuse boxes, and other appliances are above potential flood levels. This will also help you save money on flood insurance.
• Understanding your flood risk allows you to make informed decisions about protecting your family and property. Flood damage is not usually covered in homeowner multi-peril insurance policies. 
• The most common way to insure against flood damage to your home and contents is with a separate flood insurance policy.
• There are fraudulent contractors that try to take advantage of survivors’ urgency to rebuild. When looking for a contractor, ask for referrals from trusted friends and family. Check their contracting license against municipality records and also ask to see their IDs and proof of insurance. When you do decide on a contractor, make sure to get all details of the work and pricing in writing.