Make a Plan
Take the time to ensure your family’s safety during the storm. Time is of the essence once a warning is announced, and you'll want to prepare in advance.
Select the best place to gather your family during a hurricane. Determine the best escape routes and confirm the location of the nearest shelters.
Keep emergency numbers by the phone including police, fire, ambulance, and schools.
Make copies of important documents such as; Will, Mortgage, Insurance Policies, Insurance Cards. Place them in a waterproof container so they can be accessible and easily transported should you need to leave your home.
Stock emergency supplies. You should have enough food and water for your family and pets for 3 or 4 days. Store water in clean plastic containers and avoid glass or empty bleach or detergent bottles. Keep in mind that adults need 1 quart of water per day to survive.
When stocking food, aim to have a full week’s supply of canned food that requires little water and can be eaten with little or no preparation. Don’t forget the manual can opener! Remember that infants and those with illnesses will require special foods.
Additional supplies to have handy would include:
- battery-powered radio and flashlights (with extra batteries for both)
- tools, blankets and clothing
- fire extinguisher, candles and matches
- a pail with cover, boards, plastic sheeting and tape
- all special medications like insulin and heart tablets
Be prepared to give first aid. Have a first-aid kit and handbook with your emergency supplies and consider enrolling in a course. Although first aid procedures are not a substitute for qualified medical treatment, you’ll learn to do things that could make an important difference when help is not readily available.
Repair loose boards, shingles and shutters and all other things that could become a greater problem in high wind.
