How to Prepare for a Hurricane

One of the downfalls of living by the coast is the imminent threat of hurricanes. All year long, those that live by the ocean count down the days until hurricane season. To ensure the protection of you and your family, it's best to develop a plan well ahead of hurricane season so when the time comes to evacuate you are prepared. Here is a list of items that need to be addressed before the hurricane hits:

Get educated.
Know some of the different types of dangers associated with the storm. Most people think of hurricanes as simply wind and rain, but the effects are much more than that. Flooding can occur from heavy rain, overfilled rivers, and drainage ditches. The storm surge is associated with the land falling hurricane. The storm surge has the potential to covering large areas of coastline and is the typical cause of most deaths associated with a hurricane. High wind is the obvious danger and can cause roof damage, stray power lines, falling trees, and can demolish entire homes. Tornadoes usually spawn from hurricanes and occur with land falling hurricanes. Tornadoes add danger with strong gusts of wind.

Plan an evacuation route.
This involves planning well ahead of time so that your family can safely leave the area in a timely manner and avoid risking injury. Learn the safest routes inland. If you've noticed certain areas in town flood easily, then you may want to develop a route that bypasses these areas. Be prepared to drive up to fifty miles inland to a safe place. Find a hotel, friend, or family member in the area that will allow you to stay for a few days. Another idea is to contact the local emergency management office for a community preparedness plan which will include information on evacuation routes.

Supplies.
My first bit of advice when it comes to supplies is to be smart. Instead of waiting until within a few days of the hurricane's arrival and fighting the madness at Home Depot, spend a weekend in the hurricane off season stocking up for the next season. You'll have more supplies to choose from and you'll be able to take your time. A list of your supplies should include flashlights, extra batteries, portable, battery-operated radios, first aid kit, emergency food and water, cash, and suitable clothing and shoes for the weather.

Pets.
Don't forget the pets! During larger hurricanes, the space for emergency shelters may be limited. Make sure you have the names and numbers of several local animal shelter so you can have a back up plan in case the spots start filling fast. If you're driving to a friend or loved one's house out of the area, then take your pets with you.

Develop an action plan.
If the hurricane has been predicted to pass through your area, start by turning off all gas, electricity, and water. All of your family needs to be familiar with calling 911 or a fire department in case of an emergency.

Get to work on your house. The most vulnerable part of your home during a hurricane is your windows. Though permanent shutters are best protection, a lower-cost approach is plywood panels. Half-inch thick plywood is the best, and make sure they are custom fit for each window. Don't forget to market which board fits which window. Trim back your bushes and weak branches from trees in your yard. These are the type of branches that will fly around and cause damage to homes in your area.

In case you get separated from family members, have a communication plan about where to meet after the disaster. This happens often when a hurricane nears and children are at school or loved ones are still at work. Ask a friend or loved one to serve as a contact in case, upon separation, everyone has a specific contact to report their whereabouts.

Hurricane Warning.
The hurricane is drawing closer and the National Weather Service has issued a Hurricane Warning. A Hurricane Warning is issued when there is a threat of hurricane within the next twenty-four hours to your area. A hurricane warning has conditions of 74 miles per hour or more. During this warning, be sure to listen to television or radio for the latest progress reports. Have your car fueled completely. Bring in loose outdoor objects such as lawn furniture and pots. Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest settings. Store your drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and any other container capable of holding water. Review all of your plans.

If you're in a mobile home, check your tie-downs and evacuate immediately. It is extremely important that you realize, as an owner of a mobile home, that you are not going to be able to weather this storm. Mobile homes are the first to go when there is destruction.

Staying at Home.
If you've decided to stay home and tough the storm out, then that's your own decision. I always tell people it's better to be safe than sorry, but it's your house. If that's the case, always stay inside and away from the windows. Remember, the windows are extremely vulnerable to high winds and flying objects. Keep a supply of flashlights near and plenty of extra batteries. Stay away from open flames such as candles. In an event where the windows are blown through, your candles could be tipped over and cause a fire. If your power is lost, turn off the major appliances.

Evacuation.
If local officials declare an evacuation on your area, then you must be haste. Up until this time you should have everything already packed up and ready to go. You should be out the door and ahead of the rest of the traffic. Leave as soon as possible. Review your evacuation plan and watch for any washed out bridges and flooded areas. Tell a neighbor where you're going. If there's time, then elevate your furniture to protect it from the possibility of flooding. Lock up and go.

The Aftermath.
When you return, avoid any loose power lines and report them to the necessary power company. Be careful upon entering your home. It's quite possible insects, snakes, and small animals could have taken refuge to your home. Clean out your refrigerator for spoiled items. Most importantly, take pictures of any interior and exterior damage so that you'll have visual proof for insurance claims.