Okay, so you've just moved near a coast that has a history of hurricanes. You decide it's probably a smart idea to prepare for a hurricane.
But how?
Keep reading to find out!
(Unless you already know, then just keep reading to remind yourself ;)
Prepare for a hurricane before there's any danger!
Before any danger:
- Know where to go: if there's any possibility that you will be ordered to evacuate, know the local hurricane evacuation routes and where you will go to stay ahead of time. If there are any questions, contact your local emergency management agency.
- Have a disaster supply kit: it should contain flashlights, batteries, cash, a first aid kit/supplies, and copies of any important documents or critical information.
- Make sure your home meets building codes for withstanding hurricanes
- If you're in a place that won't be asked to evacuate, make sure you have enough food/water and other supplies to last several days without power or the ability to leave.
- Have some sort of alert set up: don't get caught unaware!
- Trim and remove damaged limbs or trees: during a hurricane it's more then likely that those branches and trees will go flying.
- Secure loose rain gutters and remove any clogs or debris: to reduce property damage
- If needed, prepare a secure room
- Keep your car in good working condition
When a warning comes:
- Leave low lying areas
- Protect windows: use plywood boards or storm shutters
- Secure outside objects: don't let them fly around and smash into your neighbor's window. Hopefully they will have it boarded up though!
- Double check your food, fuel and water: now is not the time to run out
- Review your evacuation routes: better safe then sorry!
- Make sure everyone is taken care of: if there's anyone who needs medication or if you have any pets, make sure they will be okay and that you have everything needed for them
- Evacuate immediately: no window is worth more then your life. If you're told to evacuate, then GO!
- Place all your supplies/first aid where they are available for use
- Turn on you radio/TV or check your county/city website every 30 minutes for updates and instructions
- Charge your cell phone: you may not have any power after the storm and your mom will be worried sick.
- Bring lightweight objects inside: only if you have time!
- Fill your car with gas: again, only if there's time to do it safely!
During the storm:
- STAY AWAY FROM ANY WINDOWS
- Stay in your secure room!
- Don't use any candles or the phone
- Use the radio: monitor weather and Civil Service Bulletins
- Have your supplies on hand: once again, do not leave your secure room!
- Never leave during the eye of the storm: the calm does not mean it's over, the storm will resume shortly.
After the storm:
- Listen to local officials: listen to their updates and instructions
- Check with any family and friends: texting is often faster and more reliable then calling, or you can always use social media
- Make sure all is clear: before heading home or going outside. Listen and obey local officials
- Stay away from and report downed power lines: don't even go near them
- Avoid flood waters: don't walk or drive though them as they could be electrically charged and hiding dangerous debris
- Photograph your house and property: it'll help with filing an insurance claim later
- Do what you can to prevent any more damage: use a tarp to block a leaking roof. Insurance may not cover additional damage that happened after the storm
- Be patient: things will take a while to get back to normal
Please prepare now.
August has been Hurricane Month!
Stay tuned for Flooding next month!
Till next time!
~Robo Spark Team
Sources:
http://www.hurricaneville.com/safety.html
https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes
Stay tuned for Flooding next month!
Till next time!
~Robo Spark Team
Sources:
http://www.hurricaneville.com/safety.html
https://www.ready.gov/hurricanes