Hurricane Safety & Preparedness

Before the Storm Preparations/Safety Procedures: 

  • Plan an evacuation route. Contact local authorities for information about evacuation routes and shelters. Leave early. Always let someone out of state know what your evacuation plans are.
  • Create an inventory of items in your house. Video-tape or take pictures of your home.
  • Gather insurance information and check into flood insurance.
  • If it looks as though water may enter your home, it's good idea to open the main breaker in your electrical breaker box in order to cut off power.
  • Adjust the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest setting to keep your food fresh longer in case you loose power.
  • Unplug appliances and electronic equipment.
  • Turn off electricity and main water valve.
  • If you have a swimming pool, turnoff all pumps and filters.
  • Have your hurricane supply kit ready to go.
  • Cover windows.
  • Plan for pet safety.
  • Bring outdoor furniture inside.
  • Fasten boats securely.
  • Elevate furniture to minimize damage in case of flooding.
  • Lock your home.
  • Fill bath tubs with extra water.
  • Stay tuned to local radio and TV stations for news about watches, warnings and storm damage.

Check Insurance Before Hurricanes Threaten

  • Check your homeowner's policy to make sure it contains flood and wind coverage.  
  • Review coverage limits on your home and valuables to make sure they are fully covered.
  • Determine whether the policy will pay for additional living expenses to cover the cost of hotel rooms and meals if necessary.
  • Record an inventory of all personal belongings.

After the Storm: Remember Safety First

  • Please use common sense - electricity and water do not mix. 
  • Never attempt to plug in or use an electrical appliance or device while standing in water or on a damp surface.
  • If water entered your home, you should have your electrical wiring inspected by a qualified electrician as quickly as possible.
  • In cases where electric motors were flooded, they should be thoroughly checked by an electrician or certified repairman before reconnected to a power source.
  • Keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed while without electric service.
  • Treat all downed power lines as energized.
  • Beware of downed lines hidden by debris.
  • Report all downed lines immediately.
  • Prevent generator back feed.
  • Plug appliances or equipment directly into the generator.
  • Keep the machine in an open area to reduce carbon monoxide emissions.

 Hurricane Supply Kit 

  • Water - at least one gallon daily per person for three to seven days.
  • Food - enough for each person for three to seven days.
  • Non-perishable packaged or canned food and juices.
  • Food for infants or the elderly.
  • Non-electric can opener.
  • Cooking tools/fuel.
  • Paper plates/plastic utensils.
  • Blankets/pillows, etc.
  • Clothing - seasonal, rain gear, sturdy shoes
  • First aid kit complete with prescription drugs
  • Flashlight/batteries
  • Radio - Battery operated NOAA weather radio
  • Toiletries
  • Cash - Banks and ATMs may not be open after the storm
  • Keys
  • Important documents - including insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security Cards, etc. Make sure these items are stored in a water proof container.
  • Tools.
  • Full tanks of gas in vehicles.
  • Toy, books and games.

 

Don't Forget Man's Best Friend

Adding a few items to your hurricane kit can ensure your four-legged friends will weather the storm. Please remember that most shelters do not allow pets, so be sure to make other arrangements.

  • Pet care items to include in your hurricane kit:
  • Proper identification
  • Immunization records
  • Medications
  • Ample supply of food and water
  • Carrier
  • Leash and muzzle
  • A picture of your pet

  

 

  You can download PDF version of our "Hurricane Safety & Preparedness" booklet here