Hurricane Central

Hurricanes

The links below will take you to pages that contain more detail information on hurricane development.

HURRICANE WATCH

A Hurricane Watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 36 hours

	Fill up your car with gas.
	Secure buildings.
	Review evacuation plan.
	Listen to a radio or television for official instructions.
	Check your family's emergency supplies.
	Bring in outdoor objects (i.e. toys, garden tools).
	Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings.
	Secure outdoor objects which cannot be brought inside (i.e. boats, lawnmower).
	Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils.

HURRICANE WARNING

A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in 24 hours or less.

	Listen to a radio or television for official instructions.
	If in a mobile home, check tie downs and prepare to evacuate.
	Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container.
	Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
	Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy.
	Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
	If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power "surge" when electricity is restored.

EVACUATING

If asked to evacuate, please keep in mind that the decision was based on your safety.

	Take blankets and sleeping bags to shelter.
	Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going.
	Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing.
	Leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges.
	Lock up home and leave.

PROTECTING YOUR FAMILY

Develop a Family Disaster Supply Kit if in the event you are affected by an emergency. Your kit may include the following:

	Flashlight and extra batteries
	Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
	First aid kit and manual
	Emergency food and water
	Non-electric can opener
	Essential medicines
	Cash and credit cards
	Sturdy shoes

PROTECTING YOUR HOME

Your home is one of your most valuable assets. The information provided serves as a guide to help you protect it.

	Permanent shutters are the best protection. A lower-cost approach is to put up plywood panels. Use at least 1/2 inch plywood cut to fit each window.
	Remember to mark which board fits which window.
	Pre-drill holes every 18 inches for screws.
	Trim back dead or weak branches from trees.
	Check into flood insurance. You can find out about the National Flood Insurance Program through your local insurance agent or emergency management office. There is a 30-day waiting period before a new policy becomes effective. Homeowners polices generally do not cover damage from the flooding that accompanies a hurricane.

THE AFTERMATH

After the storm hits the area, be alert and watch for news from your area.

	Help injured or trapped persons.
	Give first aid where appropriate.
	Do not move seriously injured persons. Call for help.
	Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to do so.
	Inspect the outside of your home and surrounding area before attempting to enter. If you are unsure of the stability of the structure, DO NOT ENTER.
	Enter your home with caution.
	Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately.
	Check refrigerated foods for spoilage.
	Use telephone only for emergency calls.
	Stay tuned to local radio for information.
	Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
	Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven to higher ground by flood water.
	Take pictures of the damage, both to the house and its contents and for insurance claims.
	Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.