BEFORE THE STORM
· Know your risk. Consult your local emergency management office for information on preparedness in your area.
· Identify where to go if you are told to evacuate and the safest route to get there. Choose several places -- a friend's home in another town, a motel or a shelter. Remember, public shelters and many motels don't allow pets in their facilities.
· Pre-pack a hurricane supplies kit with a three-day supply of water, non-perishable food, first-aid kit, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, and baby formula (if needed), baby wipes are great for “bird baths” when you have no water due to the lack of power, feminine goods, and other essential items. If you have a baby or small children, purchased canned milk and diapers for your baby. I would also note that anyone, like my daughter, who has refrigerated medications, be prepared with plenty of ice if the power goes out. Purchase a cooler to place medications in that need to be refrigerated. What we do every summer, we fill clean 2 liter drink bottles and milk jugs with water and place in the freezer. You can use it to drink and keep your freezer, colder much longer if not opened often. When the storm is close, have all showers done and then fill the tubs with water. You can use the water to flush commodes etc. Make sure the doors to the bathrooms stay closed if a toddler is in the home, we wouldn't want him/her to drown. Have paper plates, cups and plastic utensils, as you will not be able to wash dishes. If you have a generator, have another gas can full of gas. Oil lanterns work great for light and are relatively inexpensive. Have paper towels and toiletries on hand. Have all prescription medications filled prior to the storm.
· Consider purchasing a NOAA Weather Radio for National Weather Service reports and severe weather warnings. A handheld scanner is also a wonderful tool. (my choice)
· Re-check your supply of plywood, tools, batteries, tarps and plastic sheeting for roof repairs.
· Cut dead trees and limbs that could fall on your home.
· Make sure you have a current flood insurance policy. Flood insurance is not typically a part of a homeowner's policy. A 30-day waiting period is generally required to purchase flood insurance, so take the time now to visit your insurance agent to learn more.
· Take pictures of your property before the storm to help validate your claim and remember to take your policies with you if you need to evacuate.
WHEN A HURRICANE IS APPROACHING
· Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated storm information. A hurricane watch means possible danger; if the danger increases, a hurricane warning will be issued.
· Bring in garbage cans, lawn furniture and other items that could blow away or could be a weapon when thrown through the air by strong winds.
· Fill your car's gas tank and prepare to evacuate if told to do so.
· If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately.
DURING THE STORM
· If you are not advised to evacuate, remain indoors, away from windows. If necessary, seek refuge in an interior, windowless room. Use a mattress to protect you from falling debris.
AFTER THE STORM
· Listen to your local radio stations for official disaster relief information and instructions.
· Be prepared to do without power, telephone or any outside services for a week or more.
· Watch out for downed power lines, weakened structures, rodents and snakes, and avoid puddles of standing water.
· Avoid drinking tap water. Eat only foods you are absolutely sure are safe.
· Be extra careful when handling power tools, gas lanterns, generators and matches.
· Avoid using candles as a light source. Deadly fires can result.
If anyone else has any suggestions or comments, your ideas are welcomed as I may have forgotten something.
Be Safe!
Angela