Plan ahead: create and practice an emergency plan
– Identify safe spaces in your home (interior rooms without windows or a flood-safe higher floor).
– Establish an evacuation route and meeting point for family members. Know local evacuation zones and vertical-evacuation shelters if flooding is likely.
– Share contact information with out-of-state family or friends who can serve as a communication hub.
– Practice your plan at least twice a year and update it when household members or needs change.
Assemble a hurricane kit
A well-stocked kit makes a major difference when power is out or stores are closed.
– Water: at least one gallon per person per day for several days.
– Nonperishable food: ready-to-eat items and a manual can opener.
– Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, spare batteries, and a portable phone charger.
– First-aid kit, prescription medications, copies of important documents (stored in a waterproof container), and cash.
– Flashlights, multipurpose tool, and extra clothing/blankets.
– Pet supplies: food, leash, carrier, and vaccination records.
Home and property protection
– Trim trees and secure outdoor furniture, grills, and trash cans before a storm.
– Install storm shutters or board up windows with marine plywood cut to fit.
– Know how to shut off utilities: gas, electricity, and water.
Keep necessary tools accessible.
– Elevate HVAC units, water heaters, and electrical systems if your property is in a flood-prone area.
– Consider flood insurance and homeowners insurance reviews; standard policies often don’t cover flood damage.
Understand storm hazards
– Storm surge: the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths in coastal areas. Evacuate when officials advise; surge can overcome roads quickly.
– Flooding: inland flooding can occur far from the coast. Elevation and drainage matter more than proximity to water on many maps.
– Wind damage: secure loose items and reinforce doors, garage doors, and roof attachments.
– Tornadoes: hurricanes can spawn tornadoes; seek interior shelter on the lowest floor.
Stay informed
– Follow local emergency management agencies and the National Weather Service for official alerts.
– Sign up for local emergency notifications and use trustworthy apps that provide alerts with location-based warnings.
– Be skeptical of social media rumors and verify through official channels before acting.
During the storm and immediate aftermath
– Stay indoors away from windows. Use interior rooms or bathrooms as shelter.
– Conserve phone battery; use text messages to reach out because they use less bandwidth than calls.
– Do not drive through flooded roads; six inches of water can stall a car and one foot can carry it away.
– After the storm, watch for hazards: downed power lines, gas leaks, contaminated water, and unstable structures. Photograph damage for insurance claims once it’s safe.
Community resilience
Stay connected with neighbors, local volunteer groups, and community shelters. Community planning and shared resources often accelerate recovery for everyone.
Regular preparation and community awareness make a substantial difference when storms approach. Review your plan, update supplies, and confirm evacuation details so you can act quickly and confidently when needed.
