Hurricane Watch

A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 36 hours.

• Bring in outdoor objects such as toys and garden tools
• Check your family's emergency supplies
• Fill up your car with gas
• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions
• Review evacuation plan
• Secure buildings
• Secure outdoor objects which cannot be brought inside, such as boats and lawnmowers
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, and cooking utensils
• Turn your refrigerator and freezer to their coldest settings

Hurricane Warning

  A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in 24 hours or less.

• Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light
• If in a mobile home, check tie downs and prepare to evacuate
• If power is lost, turn major appliances off to reduce a power surge when electricity is restored
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy
• Listen to a radio or television for official instructions
• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors
• Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container

Evacuating

If you are asked to evacuate, please keep in mind that the decision was based on your safety.

• Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing
• Leave as soon as possible - avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges
• Lock up home and leave
• Take blankets and sleeping bags to the shelter
• Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going

Protecting Your Family

Develop a Family Disaster Supply Kit for use in the event you are affected by an emergency. Your kit may include:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and water
• Non-electric can opener
• Essential medicines
• Cash and credit cards
• Sturdy shoes

Protecting Your Home

Your home is one of your most valuable assets. The information provided serves as a guide to help you protect it.

• Check into flood insurance. There is a 30 day waiting period before a new policy takes effect. Homeowner policies do not cover flooding damage from hurricanes
• Permanent shutters are the best protection. A lower-cost approach is plywood panels, at least 1/2 inch thick, cut to fit each window
• Pre-drill holes every 18 inches for screws
• Remember to mark which board fits which window
• Trim back dead or weak branches from trees

The Aftermath

After the storm hits, be alert and watch for news from your area.

• Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately
• Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven to higher ground by flood water
• Check refrigerated foods for spoilage
• Do not move seriously injured persons. Call for help
• Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed out bridges
• Enter your home with caution
• Give first aid where appropriate
• Help injured or trapped persons
• If you are unsure of the stability of the structure, do not enter
• Inspect the outside of your home and surrounding area before attempting to enter
• Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home
• Return home only after authorities advise it is safe to do so
• Stay tuned to local radio for information
• Take pictures of the damage to the house and its contents for insurance claims
• Use telephone only for emergency calls