What To Do Before a Hurricane
5/25/2022 (Permalink)
Evacuation
- If advised to evacuate, know where you will go and how you will get there.
- Plan before hand if you need help with transportation.
- Mobile, manufactured, trailer homes and recreational vehicles are not safe in high wind events.
Shelter
- Prepare to live without power, water, gas, phones, and internet for an extended period.
- Practice going to a designated safe shelter for high winds. The best shelter would be a small room with no windows on the lowest level that is least likely to flood.
- Flooding can happen quickly, so be prepared to evacuate fast if needed.
Stay Connected
- Sign up for free emergency alerts for your local government and monitor the local news and weather.
- Have a backup battery or a way to charge your cellphone.
- Have a battery powered radio in case of a power outage.
- Understand the difference in alerts-
- A WATCH means be prepared
- A WARNING means take action
- Plan for electrical needs including medical equipment. Talk to your doctor and plan for backup power.
Emergency Supplies
- Gather food, medicine, and water. Stores and pharmacies may be closed and create and Go-Kit and Stay-at-Home Kit.
- Go-Kit: At least 3 days of supplies you can carry with you. Include backup batteries and chargers for devices. (Cell phones, CPAP, wheelchair, etc.)
- Stay-at-Home Kit: At least 2 weeks of supplies.
- Have a 1-month supply of medicine and medical supplies in a childproof container.
- Keep personal, financial, and medical records safe and easy to access (hard copies or securely backed up on a form of technology). Consider keeping a card with medical information and dosages.
Protect your Home
Wind
- Secure or bring inside outdoor items like lawn furniture, trashcans, and anything that can be picked up by wind and hurt someone.
- Anchor objects that are unsafe to bring inside, like gas grills and propane tanks.
- Protect windows with permanent storm shutters or sheeting.
Flood
- Clean our drains, gutters, and downspouts.
- Stockpile protective materials like sandbags and plastic sheeting.
- Consider elevating heating systems, water heaters, and electric panels.
- Review insurance policies with your agency.