Hurricanes
"Preparation through education is less costly than learning through tragedy."
- BILL PROENZA, DIRECTOR NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER
Before
Preparing for a hurricane:
* Be ready to drive up to fifty miles inland to a safe place.
* Family members should know how to turn off gas, electricity and water.
* To protect you windows use 1/2 inch plywood cut to fit for each window. Be sure to mark which board fits which window.
* Pre-drill holes every 12 to 18 inches for screws.
* Develop a plan in case family members are seperated. (Planning how to get back together.)
* Out of state relative or friend as a family contact that all family members can call if seperated. (be sure all family members have the name, address and telephone number).
Stock emergency supplies:
* Be sure you have the following basic supplies on hand and in an accessible location.
* Flashlight and batteries (long-life alkaline batteries; store in a cool dry place).
* Portable radio and extra batteries (long-life batteries; store in a cool dry place).
* First aid kit and handbook.
* Enough drinkable water for each family member for at least three days: allow 1 gallon per person per day.
* Emergency food for at least three days: allow 3 meals per person per day.
* Required medications.
* Blankets, warm clothes, gloves and hard shoes.
* Pipe or crescent wrenches to turn off gas and water supplies.
* Click here to view emergency hurricane supplies on sales
During
During a hurricane watch:
* Review evacuation plan
* Check emergency supplies
* Listen to a battery operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports.
* Fuel car
* Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows.
* Store drinking water in clean jugs and bottles.
* Store all valubles and personal papers in waterproof containers.
During a hurricane warning:
* Listen to a battery operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports
* Stay inside and away from all windows and glass doors.
* Keep flashlights and extra batteries close at hand.
If officials indicate evacuation:
* Leave as soon as possible
* Avoid flooded roads and stay away from all washed out bridges.
* Turn off electricity and main water valve.
* Inform emergency contact where you are going
* Take pre-assembled emergency supplies with you.
After
Check for injuries:
* Help injured or trapped persons without endangering yourself.
* Give first aid where needed.
* Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger.
* Cover injured persons with blankets to keep them warm.
Be informed:
* Listen to radio or television for official information
* Return home only after officials advise that it is safe.
* Avoid fallen power lines.
* Enter home with caution - animals are driven to higher ground by flood water.
Check for the following potential risks:
* Gas leaks. Shut off the main gas valve if you suspect or identify the odor of natural gas.
* Damaged electrical wiring. Shut off power at the control box if there is any damage to your house wiring. (if you have to step in water call an electrician)
* Check for sewage and water line damage.
Educate:
* What is a hurricane WATCH? When there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-46 hours.
* What is a hurricane WARNING? When winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas are expected in 24 hours or less.
Source: FEMA