Monday, August 24, 2020

Hurricane Safety: What You Need to Know

Hurricanes are a destructive force. They can eliminate landmarks, homes and, even take lives. It is important to know hurricane safety and to be prepared in an emergency.  By reviewing these tips, you should know what to do before a hurricane, during a hurricane and after a hurricane hits your region.

The best time to prepare is before hurricane season starts (in June). Follow these simple steps:

·       Gather items and put together an emergency kit that can last you several days. For tips on what should be included in your emergency kit (water, food, and supplies) please visit  https://www.ready.gov/kit.

·       Write out your family’s emergency plan. Before an emergency happens, sit with your family, or loved ones and discuss your plan. How will you get in touch with each other? Where will you go? And what will you do? You can find lots of emergency plans on the www.ready.gov website.

·       Look over your insurance coverage. You want to make sure you and your property are covered before an emergency occurs. Review all the coverage you pay for because you might need additional flood insurance.

If a hurricane is moving in the direction of where you live and depending on the severity, it might be best to evacuate. If you will need to evacuate your home, let friends and family know. Follow these important tips:

·       Secure your home. Board windows up to protect glass from breaking. It is best to buy these supplies early, so you aren’t in a rush to get supplies you need to protect your home.

·       Stay alert and informed. Listen to the news and weather station so that you know what is always going on.

·       Listen to orders of local officials. If there is a mandatory evacuation, it is incredibly important you listen and follow orders to stay safe and evacuate.

·       Take refugee in your home. If you do not have to evacuate, the best places in your home to take cover are the interior hallways, interior rooms, and closets. Stay away from windows including glass doors.

After a hurricane strikes, we sometimes think the worst is over. But the damage left by the hurricane can cause a lot of upset and stress as well. Follow theses tips to ensure you are ready:

·       If you had to evacuate, you can return home once officials have given the all clear and say it is ok to return home.

·       Check the outside of your home for any damages. Look out for loose power lines, gas leaks and structural damage that needs to be reported or fixed.

·       Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of death after storms in areas dealing with power outages. Never use a portable generator inside your home or garage.

·       If you do not have power, use battery powered flashlights. Please do not light candles.

·       Continue staying informed by watching the weather channel.

Remember all these tips to ensure you are prepared for a hurricane should it come your way. And if you ever find yourself in an emergency, please do not hesitate to call 9-1-1 for help!