Hurricane season brings potential dangers to coastal regions and beyond. As climate change contributes to more intense storms, being prepared is crucial for protecting your family and property. This comprehensive guide will walk you through essential steps to take before, during, and after a hurricane to ensure your safety and minimize damage.
Understanding Hurricane Risks and Warnings
Hurricanes pose significant threats to life and property, with risks extending far beyond coastal areas. Understanding the different types of alerts and the impact of climate change on storm intensity is essential.
Types of Hurricane Alerts
The National Weather Service issues two main types of hurricane alerts:
- Hurricane Watch: Issued when hurricane conditions are possible within 48 hours
- Hurricane Warning: Issued when hurricane conditions are expected within 36 hours
Essential Supplies for Hurricane Preparedness
Having the right supplies on hand will help you weather a hurricane safely. The American Red Cross recommends having these essentials well before a storm is forecast to ensure you’re prepared.
Food and Water Provisions
- At least one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days (2 weeks if you’re staying home)
- A three-day supply of non-perishable food and easy-to-prepare items (2-week supply for home)
- Manual can opener
- Paper plates, cups, and utensils
Emergency Equipment and Tools
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (a NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
- Multi-tool or basic tool kit
- Duct tape and plastic sheeting for emergency repairs
- Fire extinguisher
Medical and Personal Care Items
Taking care of health and hygiene is crucial when infrastructure might be compromised. Assemble these personal care essentials ahead of time:
- First aid kit
- Prescription medications (seven-day supply)
- Personal hygiene items
- Glasses or contact lenses with solution
- Baby supplies, if applicable
- Pet supplies, if applicable
- Personal care items your family will need
Other Essentials
- Cell phones and chargers
- Copies of important personal documents (insurance policy, birth certificates, etc.)
- Extra cash
- Blankets or sleeping bags
Securing Your Home Before the Storm
Taking steps to protect your home can significantly reduce damage from high winds and flooding. Focus on these key areas to strengthen your home’s defenses.
Protecting Windows and Doors
Install hurricane shutters or board up windows with plywood to prevent shattering. Secure doors with additional locks or braces, paying special attention to garage doors, which are often vulnerable to wind damage.
Safeguarding Outdoor Items
Bring in or securely tie down all outdoor furniture, decorations, and equipment, as well as lawn and patio furniture, planters, and bicycles. Close or fold any shade awnings, or uninstall them if possible. Strong winds can turn these items into dangerous projectiles.
Indoor Preparation Measures
Inside your home, there are a few preparations you can make for your safety and convenience during and after the storm. Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings to keep food longer if the power goes out. If you’re weathering the storm at home, fill bathtubs and large containers with water for washing and flushing if water service is disrupted.
Creating a Comprehensive Family Emergency Plan
A well-thought-out emergency plan can make a big difference in keeping your family safe during a hurricane. Develop and practice your plan well in advance of any storm threats.
Evacuation Routes and Procedures
Identify multiple evacuation routes from your home and community. Familiarize yourself with local shelters and make arrangements for a place to stay if evacuation is necessary. Practice your evacuation plan with all family members to ensure everyone knows what to do.
Communication Strategies
Establish a family communication plan, including an out-of-area contact who can relay messages if local communications are disrupted. Ensure all family members have important phone numbers memorized or written down.
Special Considerations for Pets and Elderly Family Members
Include pets in your evacuation plans and prepare a pet emergency kit. For elderly or disabled family members, plan for any special needs, including medications, mobility aids, and transportation assistance that may be needed.
Staying Informed: Tracking the Hurricane
Accurate, up-to-date information is crucial for making timely decisions during a hurricane threat. Utilize multiple sources to stay informed about the storm’s progress and official instructions.
Reliable Information Sources
Follow updates from the National Hurricane Center, local emergency management agencies, and reputable news outlets. Many areas now offer text or email alert systems for emergency notifications.
Using NOAA Weather Radio
A NOAA Weather Radio provides critical information directly from the National Weather Service. The American Red Cross recommends this tool for receiving timely alerts and updates, even if other communication methods fail.
Understanding Hurricane Forecasts
Familiarize yourself with hurricane forecast terminology and graphics. Pay attention to the projected path, intensity, and potential impacts for your area. Remember that forecasts can change rapidly, so check for updates frequently.
Last-Minute Hurricane Preparation
As the hurricane nears, take these final steps to secure your property and ensure your family’s safety.
Final Home Safety Measures
Make sure you have covered all the necessary steps to protect your home, including:
- Close storm shutters or board up windows if not already done
- Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances
- Move valuable items to higher ground to protect them from potential flooding
- Fill your car’s gas tank in case evacuation becomes necessary. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including food, water, first aid supplies, and basic tools.
- Gather important documents such as identification, insurance policies, and medical records. Store them in a waterproof container or take digital copies.
- Secure valuable items in a safe place or consider taking them with you if evacuating.
Safety Protocols During the Hurricane
If you’re sheltering in place during the hurricane, follow these safety guidelines to protect yourself and your family.
Tracking the Storm
Track the storm online through local news or the Weather Channel and watch for emergency alerts for your county on TV or on your phone. The Red Cross recommends listening to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical information from the National Weather Service.
Identifying Safe Rooms in Your Home
Choose an interior room on the lowest level of your home, away from windows and exterior walls. Bathrooms or closets often make good safe rooms. Ensure everyone in the household knows where to go when the storm hits.
Power Outage Preparedness
Have battery-powered lights and a radio ready. Avoid using candles due to fire risk. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible to maintain cold temperatures if power is lost.
Emergency First Aid Basics
Keep a well-stocked first aid kit accessible. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid procedures, including CPR and how to treat injuries common during storms, such as cuts and sprains.
Post-Hurricane Safety and Recovery
After the storm passes, it’s time to begin the recovery process. Many hazards can persist even after the hurricane has moved on.
Assessing Property Damage
Wait for the official all-clear before going outside. Remember that in a hurricane, when the eye of the storm passes, it will briefly appear calm and clear outside, but you should remain indoors until the storm has passed. Carefully inspect your property for damage, taking photos for insurance purposes. Be alert for potential hazards such as downed power lines or weakened structures.
Avoiding Post-Storm Hazards
Be mindful of the dangers that can still be present after the storm has passed, such as staying out of floodwaters which may be contaminated or electrically charged. Also, be cautious of debris and unstable structures, and watch for snakes and other animals that may have been displaced by the storm.
Contacting Insurance and Disaster Relief Services
Report property damage to your insurance company promptly. Keep records of all communications. If needed, contact disaster relief organizations like the American Red Cross for assistance with immediate needs such as food, shelter, and medical care.
Cleaning and Repairs
Once you have assessed the property damage and contacted your insurance, focus on safe cleaning and repairs. Use protective gear such as gloves and masks to avoid exposure to hazardous materials. Properly dispose of contaminated items and debris, and ensure all electrical systems are checked by professionals before use.