Hurricane Preparation
- Put your go-bag near your point of exit so you will not forget it. Assign a family member to be responsible for the go-bags. Then, if possible assign a second family member with the same responsibility so that you have a contingency.
- Secure your home and property. If you have storm shutters that require you to put them up, do it. If you cannot do it yourself due to disability, seek out someone who can do it in a timely fashion. If you have permanent storm shutters on all windows and doors that can be easily closed and locked, do so in proper time. The same holds true with any security preparedness for the home do not wait until the last minute to insure your family’s safety.
- Keep your gutters clean throughout the year. Do not wait until a hurricane is approaching to clean your gutters. If you do it periodically throughout the year, it will be easier to clean prior to any impending hurricane or storm.
- Get your first aid kit and make sure all family members know where it is and what is inside.
- Make sure all trees and shrubbery are cut back away from windows.
- If you own a boat or recreation vehicle, this is the time to make sure they are secure and not exposed.
- Make sure any propane or natural gas tanks are shut off and secured.
- Do not use a corded phone unless it is an absolute emergency.
- Use cellular and/or cordless phones to make your phone calls.
- Make sure your cell phones and laptops are fully charged.
- Fill the bathtub with water. This water should be used for bathing if you are not evacuating.
- Fill containers of water from the tap in advance of the hurricane so that you will have portable drinking and cooking water.
- Have flashlights and battery powered lanterns on hand with lots of extra batteries—it is very possible that you will not have electric after the storm passes for hours, days or even weeks if you stay in the home.
- Buy Sterno or other fuel source. They will come in handy for warming things up and cooking.
- Get a propane grill and extra fuel for 7-10 days cooking.
- Have charcoal on hand to make a fire for cooking. If you do not have a charcoal barbecue on hand, be sure you take serious safety precautions and put the charcoal in something that will maintain it without ignition or other danger.
- Stock up on food rations that do not require figuration. Food supply should be 7-10 days per person. Canned soup, vegetables etc. You can still maintain a balanced diet.
- Get your (Rx) prescriptions filled! Do not wait; you do not know how long the aftermath will be.
- Stock up on food and water for your pets.
- Backup all your files on your computer for home and work. Unplug all your computer devices.
- It does not hurt to video tape your house and belongings in their current condition. Great for supportive data to insurance companies.