A hurricane is a storm with strong circulating winds of over 70 miles an hour, with the capability of surpassing 150 miles an hour. The southern Atlantic Ocean, eastern Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea are vulnerable to these severe tropical storms. Such devastating natural disasters normally occur near the end of the year, and are strongest from August to October. There are vital guidelines to follow when preparing for a hurricane. Knowing how to prepare for a hurricane may help protect you and your family from serious injury and even death, which is extremely important. It may also protect your home, property, or business from severe damage.
Put Together an Emergency Supply Kit
A basic supply kit should include:
Water Non-perishable food Can opener First aid kit Cell phone with inverter or solar charger Whistle Battery-powered and NOAA Weather Radio Flashlight Extra batteries for radio and flashlight Dust mask Local maps Wrench to turn off utilities Moist towelettes Garbage bags
Having an emergency kit is always necessary when preparing for a natural disaster. If your home or community has been affected by a hurricane, local relief workers and disaster volunteers may not be able to help you for hours or days and basic services may not be available for days, weeks, or longer.
Be Aware of Hurricane Signs
Preparing for a hurricane undoubtedly involves understanding what signs precede its arrival. The sooner you recognize signs, the more time you have to seek safe shelter from the disaster. One of the first signs of a hurricane drawing near is increased ocean swelling. The ocean begins to increase approximately six feet in height about 72 hours before the hurricanes arrival. Waves hit the shore with a continual increase in rapidity about every nine seconds as high as 16 feet. Roughly 36 hours before the hurricane hits, the wind picks up speed, at times past 100 miles per hour, and the barometer begins to drop. Just 18 hours before its landfall, sporadic and intensifying heavy rain begins pouring.
Secure Your Home before a Hurricane
Properly securing your home may protect your family from harm along with severe damage to your property. Decide if building a safe room is a good option for you. If you have a boat, fasten it appropriately in a safe place. Firmly secure your roof to the frame structure by adding extra clips and installing straps to minimize damage. Use permanent storm shutters for your windows if possible, but if not, board them with cut to fit and ready to install 5/8″ marine plywood. Trim all trees and shrubs and clear clogged and loose downspouts and rain gutters. You may also want to consider flood insurance, which is the only way to financially cover your property from flood damage caused by a hurricane.
Plan with Your Family
It is best to get together with your family and discuss what the best plan is for the household when preparing for a hurricane. Every individual should exchange phone numbers with each family member for emergencies. People are encouraged to choose a relative or close friend as an emergency contact in their mobile phone address book. Adding “ICE” next to the persons name enables first responders, such as firefighters, paramedics, and police officers, to access important medical information about you, from your emergency contact information if you are in an emergency.
Always have at least a half tank of gas in your car in case you must evacuate. All family members should choose a place to meet up in and outside of the neighborhood. Learn other roads to take or other forms of transportation, especially if you do not have a car. Make sure your emergency kits are always stocked, up-to-date, and perishable items are not expired. If it has not been contaminated then take it with you.If you have a pet, decide how you will take care of it. Be courteous and see if a neighbor may need a ride.
When a Hurricane is in Your Area
When a hurricane is in your area protect your home by closing all storm shutters, windows, doors, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors. Anything that the wind can lift should be brought into the house. Stay tuned in to the radio or television for current coverage. Keep large clean containers filled with unpolluted water for drinking and sanitary purposes. Shut off propane tanks and small appliances. Keep the refrigerator and freezer set at the lowest possible temperature so that the food will stay good longer. Turn off utilities if directed to.
When to Evacuate
Evacuate if local authorities instruct you to and be sure to follow their advice. Steer clear of bridges that are washed out and flooded roads while evacuating. If you live near a river, on a floodplain, on and inland waterway, or on the coast then you should withdraw from your home. Hurricane winds are stronger at higher levels, making high-rise buildings a safety hazard. It is best to vacate the building under these conditions. Mobile homes and shelters are unsafe and must be evacuated as well. No matter where you are it is best to leave if you feel that your life is at risk or in danger.
When Unable to Evacuate
Go to your safe room if it is not possible to leave your home. If you do not have safe room then stay inside your home and always keep away from windows or any glass. Securely lock and close all external and inside doors, and close all blinds and curtains. Stay in a small closet, hallway, or inner room on the lowest level of the house. Always try to lie down on the floor under a table or underneath another durable object.
Everyone will benefit from learning how to prepare for a hurricane or any natural disaster. It is important to remember not to wait until a natural disaster is very close to begin to prepare, because it might be too late. Knowing what seasons they commonly hit your area can help you to be ready ahead of time so you can take the appropriate steps. Preparing for a hurricane before there are even any signs is the best way to protect your family.