HURRICANES

These tropical storms are prevalent along the east coast and the Gulf of Mexico, and in the Caribbean. They are typified by winds above 70 miles per hour whirling counter-clockwise. They are accompanied by heavy rains, flooding both along the coast and inland. They can also be accompanied by tornadoes. The normal time of occurrence is from June to November, with August and September being most likely. There is usually advanced warning, but it is best to plan ahead and prepare “in the event of.”

Before
* Call the Red Cross or Sheriff’s office to check the area’s risk of hurricane.
* Find out if there is the possibility of flooding during or following a hurricane.
* Keep an emergency kit equipped and in a handy place. This should include
flashlight, NOAA radio, batteries, water, food, required medications, insurance
policy numbers, and first aid kit.
* Have a contact person out of the area and a family meeting place.
* Be sure the family knows how to turn off utilities.
* Keep your car’s gas tank at least half full.

When there is a Hurricane Watch (A Hurricane is possible in your area)
* Listen to the local radio and TV
* Secure your home. Board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit. Lock
doors. Put “loose” sports equipment, outdoor furniture, garbage cans, toys, and
anything which could blow away, inside. Brace and secure external doors.
* Be sure you have food and fresh water in your survival kits.
* Fill up the gas tank on your car.
* Be prepared to evacuate in case you are instructed to go. Evacuate if you live in a
mobile home, high rise, on the coast, in a floodplain, or near a river or inland
waterway.

When there is a Hurricane Warning (A Hurricane is approaching)
* If told to, evacuate immediately.
* If not told to evacuate, stay inside and away from windows.
* Close all internal doors.

During the Hurricane:
* Go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest level of your home or building.
* Lie on the floor under a table or desk.
* Stay away from windows.
* When the eye of the hurricane is passing it will be calm. Stay inside. The worst part
will come after the center has passed.

After the Hurricane:
* If you have been evacuated, stay put until told it is safe to return home.
* Wear shoes.
* Use your flashlight to check for damage.
* Be Careful of falling debris and downed power lines.
* Get a qualified inspector to evaluate your home and utilities if you suspect damage.
* When you are safe, help your neighbor.
* Do not go to areas where you know there has been damage.