MOTHER NATURE

Pre-Hurricane Season Preparations

Emergency Kit

To sustain you and your family for at least 3-7 days:

• Water: At least 1 gallon per person per day. Consider water purification tablets or filters as backup.

• Food: Non-perishable items like canned goods, dried fruits, protein bars, and pet food if applicable.

 

First Aid Kit

• Include any necessary prescription medications, bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other essential items.
   

Battery-powered Radio

• Keep a weather radio for continuous updates if power or internet goes out.

 

Power Sources

• Stock up on extra batteries, portable chargers for devices, and a backup power source like a generator (and fuel if needed).

Personal Supplies

• Sanitation and hygiene products, masks, spare glasses or contact lenses, extra cash, and important documents in waterproof containers.

Home Hardening

• Install storm shutters on windows or, if unavailable, have pre-cut plywood ready to cover windows and doors.

• Reinforce your garage door to prevent it from being blown in by strong winds.

• Inspect your roof and reinforce weak areas to reduce the risk of leaks or structural damage.

• Install hurricane straps or clips to secure the roof to the house frame.

Property Prep

• Trim trees and branches near your house to minimize debris hazards.

• Clear gutters, drains, and downspouts to reduce flooding risks.

• Store or anchor any outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.

Community Resources

• Sign up for local emergency alerts and notifications, like Nixle or city-specific alert systems.

• Learn the location of nearby shelters (including pet-friendly ones if applicable) and evacuation routes.

Pre-Storm (When a Hurricane Warning is Issued)

Secure the Home

• Install window shutters or plywood over all windows and glass doors.

• Move vehicles to higher ground or into a garage if possible.

• Fill bathtubs and sinks with water to use for washing or flushing toilets if utilities go out.

• Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances to avoid potential fires.

 

Prepare an Evacuation Go-Bag

• Copies of important documents IDs, insurance policies, medical records, and bank information in waterproof bags.

• Extra clothing, blankets, hygiene products, masks, and any specific supplies for infants, elderly family members, or pets.

• Cash, as ATMs and card readers may be down during a power outage.

• A list of emergency contacts, including family members, neighbors, and local authorities.

Plan Your Evacuation Route

• Choose at least two routes to an evacuation location in case of road closures.

• Confirm lodging at a safe destination or locate public shelters, and know which shelters are pet-friendly if needed.

• Coordinate with neighbors or friends for shared travel if you don’t have personal transportation.

During the Storm

Shelter in Place  (If Not Evacuating)

• Stay in a small, windowless room on the lowest floor, such as a hallway, bathroom, or closet.

• Avoid using candles, as they increase fire risk; use battery-operated flashlights instead.

• Use a battery-powered weather radio to stay informed about storm updates and potential evacuation orders.

Evacuation  (If Necessary)

• Follow official evacuation orders and stick to designated routes to avoid impassable or flooded roads.

• If roads are flooded, do not attempt to drive through water; turn around and find an alternative route.

• Keep family members and pets together at all times to avoid separation in chaotic situations.

After the Hurricane

Returning Home Safely

• Wait for official confirmation that it’s safe to return before going back to your property.

• Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas, as water may contain debris, sewage, or downed power lines.

• Use extreme caution around damaged buildings and structures, which may be unstable.

Damage Assessment and Cleanup

• Document any damage with photos or videos for insurance purposes before starting cleanup.

• Wear protective gear, including gloves and masks, when cleaning up debris to avoid injury or exposure to contaminated water.

• Be cautious when handling electronics or appliances that may have come into contact with water.

Health and Safety

• Boil or disinfect any tap water until authorities confirm it’s safe to drink.

• Check in on neighbors, particularly elderly or vulnerable individuals, to ensure their safety and share resources.

• Seek medical assistance if anyone is injured or exposed to contaminated water.

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