Prepare for a Hurricane / Tropical Storm

12/3/2021 (Permalink)

10 Steps to Prepare for a Hurricane

1. Have a well organized plan.
   1. Having a well-organized plan is critical. You will want this plan to be printed, and kept in a safe place.  You will want to go over this plan with all people living in your home as well.  Have a plan for evacuation- for both people and pets!
2. Secure the Exterior
   1. In preparation for a hurricane, you will want to prepare physically. This includes boarding up windows, doors and any other entry to your home.  You do not want a window or door to break or bust.  Also, bring all exterior items inside.  This includes toys, cars, yard décor etc.…
3. Secure the Interior
   1. This includes wall art, anything hanging, loose items- you will want to secure them down or temporarily store them so they do not get destroyed or come loose and cause damage.
4. Move your vehicles
   1. As mentioned above, you will want to move your vehicles. If you cannot move them to high ground, move them into your garage next to the door.  Do not park them under street lights or wires.
5. Charge & Fill Everything
   1. In preparation, you will want your vehicles filled with gas, your phone charged to 100%, your computer, and any other device you may think you need.
6. Unplug Appliances
   1. Unplug all appliances in preparation for the storm. This includes everything in the kitchen and living room especially.  You do not want power to such appliances as water damage is likely to happen during a hurricane or tropical storm.  Water and electricity do not mix!
7. Secure Important Items
   1. Birth certificates, social security cards, loan information, titles… These types of documents and items need to be secured away in preferably a storm proof lock box. Also, it is a good idea to make copies of these items.
8. Emergency Kit
   1. You will also want an emergency kit. This all depends on where you will be at during the storm and how much room you have.  At minimum, you want batteries, dried/ canned food, water, flashlights, and essentials.
9. Shelter
   1. Your shelter room should be a room on the first floor with no windows or breakables. You will also want to have a map/ route to the nearest storm shelter in emergency. Be ready to evacuate at any time.
10. Get ready
    1. Prepare your family and pets. Share all plans, and keep up to date on storm news.  Check the radio, TV, and any other channel so you know exactly what is going on.