Before a Hurricane

BEFORE A HURRICANE

 

Preparing for a Hurricane:

For a complete checklist of precautions to take before, during, and after a hurricane, click here.

  • Build an emergency supply kit:
    • 3 day supply of water
    • 3 day supply of food
    • Flashlights
    • Extra batteries
    • First aid supplies
  • Get a full tank of gas in one car
  • Store important documents in water-tight container
  • Establish and review evacuation plan; plan alternate routes
  • Locate nearest shelters

Remember the four steps: Gather. Record. Prepare. Protect.

Gather important documents, such as insurance policies, birth certificates, deeds, and utility bills and store them in waterproof containers. Also gather any important mementos, such as family photos and keepsakes. Write down any important numbers in case you lose power.

Record evidence of your home. Take photos of the inside and outside, including walls, floors, close-ups of appliances and other high-end items. Email photos to yourself for backup.

Prepare your home if you have time. Secure outdoor objects or move them inside, protect windows and use sandbags in doorways.

Protect yourself. This is the most important step. Keep cash, your photo ID and any medications with you. Follow evacuation orders — they are made to keep you safe. If you choose to stay, remember to store enough food, water and pet supplies with you. Store extra batteries, a battery-operated radio and gasoline.

 

 

Hurricanes 

Hurricanes are powerful tropical weather systems. When hurricanes move onto land, they sweep the ocean inward. Heavy winds, tornadoes, strong thunderstorms, flooding, storm surge and landslides can all be caused by hurricanes.

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 to November 30 with the peak season from mid-August to late October.

HURRICANE CATEGORIES

  • Tropical Depression: winds up to 39 miles per hour (mph).
  • Tropical Storm: 39 to 73 mph winds
  • Category 1: 74 to 95 mph winds
  • Category 2: 96 to110 mph winds
  • Category 3: 111 to 130 mph winds
  • Category 4: 131 to 155 mph winds.
  • Category 5: winds 156 mph or greater.

 

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