Hurricane season is upon us once again. These strong tropical storms can leave a wide wake of destruction in their path. Being prepared is your best defense. Here are some tips on how to prepare for the next hurricane that might head our way.
Before a Hurricane:
- Assemble a disaster supplies kit for your home and car.
- Make a family communications plan.
- Have your trees trimmed.
- Have a plan for your pets.
- Board up your windows.
- Bring in outdoor objects that could blow away.
- Strengthen your home.
- Know your surroundings, as well as all evacuation routes.
- Have enough food, water, and medication for at least 3 days.
- Prepare written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water.
- Have a NOAA weather radio handy with plenty of batteries, so you can listen to storm advisories.
- If your home isnât on higher ground, go to a shelter.
- If emergency managers say to evacuate, then do so immediately.
- Have some cash on hand.
- Make sure your car is filled with gasoline.
During a Hurricane:
- Listen for emergency information and alerts.
- Stay away from low-lying and flood prone areas.
- Always stay indoors, interior rooms are best.
- Use flashlights in the dark if the power goes out, do not use candles.
After a Hurricane:
- Register yourself as safe on the Safe and Well website to let friends and family know youâre safe.
- Stay indoors until it is safe to come out.
- Check for injured or trapped people, without putting yourself in danger.
- Watch out for flooding and downed power lines.
- Do not attempt to drive in flooding water.
- Stay away from standing water.
- Donât drink tap water until officials say itâs safe to do so.
- Document any property damage with photographs for insurance purposes.
- Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up.
