Pre-Hurricane Season Preparation:

 

1. Create an Emergency Plan:

• Discuss evacuation routes and destinations with your family.
• Identify a safe room or shelter in your home, preferably an interior room without windows.
• Establish communication plans with family members and decide on meeting points in case you're separated.
• Consider pets in your plan (pet-friendly shelters, food, and supplies for them).

1. Prepare an Emergency Kit:

   • Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least 3-7 days.
   • Non-perishable food: Enough for at least 3-7 days, including canned goods, dry goods, and high-energy snacks.
   • Manual can opener: For canned food.
   • First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, tweezers, medications, etc.
   • Medications: At least a one-week supply of prescription medications and copies of prescriptions.
   • Flashlights and extra batteries.
   • Portable battery-powered radio or NOAA Weather Radio: To stay informed about weather updates.
   • Backup power source: A fully charged power bank or generator for charging phones and electronics.
   • Cash: ATMs might be unavailable after the storm.
   • Personal hygiene items: Hand sanitizer, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, and feminine hygiene products.
   • Extra clothing: In a waterproof bag, including rain gear and sturdy shoes.
   • Blankets and pillows: Especially important if you're going to a shelter.
   • Important documents: Copies of insurance policies, medical records, identification, etc., stored in a waterproof container.
   • Tools and supplies: A multipurpose tool, duct tape, plastic sheeting, and local maps.

2. Home Preparation:

   • Secure windows and doors: Install storm shutters or use plywood to board up windows.
   • Trim trees and shrubs: Remove any dead branches that could become projectiles.
   • Secure outdoor items: Bring in outdoor furniture, trash cans, plants, and any loose objects.
   • Inspect roof and gutters: Ensure the roof is in good condition and gutters are clear of debris to prevent water damage.
   • Garage doors: Reinforce garage doors if necessary to prevent wind damage.
   • Flood-proofing: Use sandbags or plastic sheeting to prevent water from entering your home if you're in a flood-prone area.
   • Back up important data: On a cloud-based service or an external hard drive.
   • Check insurance coverage: Ensure you have adequate homeowner’s or renter’s insurance and that your flood insurance is up to date (standard homeowner's insurance typically doesn’t cover flood damage).

3. Backup Power & Electronics:

   • Portable generator: Ensure it’s properly maintained and that you have enough fuel stored safely.
   • Solar-powered chargers: For smaller devices like phones.
   • Backup batteries: Keep additional batteries for flashlights, radios, and other essential electronics.

4. Car Preparation:

   • Gas up your car: Always keep your gas tank at least half full during hurricane season.
   • Spare tire, jack, and tire repair kit: Ensure your vehicle is road-ready.
   • Car emergency kit: Include jumper cables, flares, blankets, and basic tools.
   • Maps: In case GPS is not functioning.

5. Check on Neighbors:

   • If you live near elderly or disabled individuals, make sure they have a plan and offer assistance if needed.

6. Pet Preparation:

   • Pet food and water: A week's supply.
   • Crate or carrier: In case of evacuation.
   • Leash, collar, and ID tags: Ensure all information is up to date.
   • Vaccination records: For shelters or boarding facilities.
   • Comfort items: A familiar toy or blanket to ease anxiety.

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When a Hurricane Watch is Issued:

(A Hurricane Watch means that hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours.)

1. Monitor Local News and Weather Reports:

   • Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio handy for updates.

2. Check Your Emergency Kit:

   • Ensure all supplies are accessible and replenish any missing items.

3. Secure Loose Items Outside:

   • Bring all outdoor items inside or tie them down securely.

4. Review Your Family Emergency Plan:

   • Reconfirm your evacuation route, and communicate the plan with all household members.

5. Charge Your Electronics:

   • Fully charge cell phones, power banks, and any other devices in case of power outages.

6. Fuel Up Your Vehicles:

   • Fill your gas tank and any additional fuel containers for generators.

7. Fill Bathtubs with Water:

   • Use this water for cleaning or flushing toilets if the water supply is disrupted.

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When a Hurricane Warning is Issued:

(A Hurricane Warning means that hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours.)

1. Stay Indoors:

   • Ensure you are in a safe, interior room away from windows.

2. Follow Evacuation Orders if Given:

   • If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Take your emergency kit, important documents, and leave early to avoid traffic.

3. Unplug Electronics:

   • Unplug small appliances to avoid potential damage from power surges.

4. Reinforce Doors and Windows:

   • Double-check storm shutters and make sure all windows and doors are secure.

5. Stay Informed:

   • Continue monitoring local news and NOAA weather updates.

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During the Hurricane:

1. Stay Indoors in a Safe Location:

   • Keep away from windows and stay in your pre-designated safe room.

2. Avoid Using Candles:

   • Use flashlights instead to avoid the risk of fire.

3. Don’t Leave Your Shelter Too Soon:

   • If the eye of the hurricane passes over your area, it may seem calm, but dangerous winds will resume shortly. Wait until authorities announce it’s safe to leave.

4. Avoid Using Electronics Plugged into Outlets:

   • Power surges from lightning can cause significant damage.

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After the Hurricane:

1. Check for Updates:

   • Wait for the all-clear from local authorities before venturing outside or returning to evacuated areas.

2. Inspect Your Home for Damage:

   • Check for any structural damage, leaks, or hazards like downed power lines or broken glass. Take pictures for insurance purposes.

3. Avoid Floodwaters:

   • Floodwater may be contaminated with sewage or chemicals and may hide dangerous debris.

4. Stay Safe with Power Equipment:

   • Use generators outdoors only to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and avoid using electrical equipment if it’s wet or near water.

5. Boil Water (if necessary):

   • Follow guidance from local authorities on water safety, as public water systems may be compromised.

6. Contact Insurance Providers:

   • File claims for any damage and be sure to document everything with photos or videos.

7. Restock Supplies:

   • After the hurricane has passed, replenish your emergency supplies, particularly if you used up food, water, or batteries.

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Additional Resources:

• NOAA Weather Alerts: Stay updated with the latest information.
• FEMA: For assistance in the aftermath of a disaster.
• Local Emergency Management: Keep track of evacuation orders and shelters.

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By following these steps and being fully prepared, you'll ensure you and your family are as safe as possible during hurricane season. Preparation can make all the difference when facing these powerful storms.