Before the Storm
The day has come when the authorities has informed everyone that the hurricane in making landfall in your community. We have encouraged everyone to have their supplies ready and to make sure that they have a full tank of gas and extra water charged devices and food handy.
Better Safe than Sorry
Download Hurricane Apps
The first step towards preparation is to make sure that you download an app that is going to help you to track hurricane activity. Here are a few that will help you to stay connected with your local weather stations.
American Red Cross
Allows you to monitor multiple hurricanes simultaneously.
Includes an Emergency Alert function to receive notifications about potential disasters in your area.
FEMA App (Android, iOS)
Offers weather alerts, safety tips, and information on emergency shelters.
Includes interactive preparedness checklists for different types of disasters, including hurricanes.
WeatherBug (Android, iOS)
A comprehensive weather radar app with advanced features for tracking hurricanes.
Provides high-resolution radar imagery, storm tracks, and forecasts.
Includes severe weather alerts and customizable push notifications.
Hurricane Impact (iOS)
Specifically designed for hurricane preparedness and tracking.
Analyzes the potential impact of hurricanes on specific locations based on forecast data.
Provides customized hurricane preparedness checklists and evacuation routes.
Many times people wait until the last minute to prepare for a hurricane and it makes the entire process stressful. If you get started preparing now then you will ease some of the stress that associated with preparation. The best thing about it is that you don’t have to do everything all at once and you can break up your plan into small steps.
Preparing for a hurricane involves several immediate steps to ensure the safety of you, your family, and your property. Here are the essential actions you should take:
Stay Informed:
Monitor weather updates and stay informed about the storm’s progress through trusted sources like the National Hurricane Center, local news, and weather apps.
Create an Emergency Plan:
Develop a family emergency plan that includes communication and evacuation strategies. Decide where you will go if you need to evacuate, and establish a meeting point in case you get separated.
Check Emergency Supplies:
Review and restock your emergency kit. Include essentials like non-perishable food, water, medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and important documents.
Secure Outdoor Items:
Bring indoors or secure any outdoor furniture, potted plants, decorations, and other items that could become projectiles in strong winds.
Prepare Your Home:
Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood to protect against flying debris.
Trim trees and shrubs to minimize potential damage from fallen branches.
Clear gutters and drains to prevent water buildup.
Secure or reinforce your garage doors.
Fuel and Vehicles:
Fill your vehicles’ gas tanks.
Service your vehicles if needed to ensure they’re in good working condition.
Prepare Pets:
Gather pet supplies, including food, water, medications, and carriers.
Ensure your pets are wearing collars with up-to-date ID tags.
Secure Important Documents:
Gather and protect important documents like IDs, insurance policies, medical records, and property deeds. Consider keeping digital copies in a secure location.
Power Banks and Chargers:
Charge your electronic devices and have power banks ready to ensure communication during power outages.
Secure Cash:
Have some cash on hand in case ATMs are inaccessible during power outages.
Listen to Authorities:
Follow instructions and evacuation orders issued by local authorities. If you’re advised to evacuate, do so promptly.
Stay Indoors During the Storm:
Once the storm begins, stay indoors away from windows. Avoid using candles and have flashlights ready.
Stay Connected:
Keep your phone charged and have a way to receive weather updates and emergency alerts.
Stay Hydrated and Fed:
Have enough water and non-perishable food to last for at least 72 hours.
Monitor Alerts:
Stay tuned to weather updates and local news for the storm’s progress and any changes in advisories.
Remember, hurricane preparedness is a continuous process. Stay vigilant, be ready to adapt to changing situations, and always prioritize safety for yourself and your loved ones.