WHAT SHOULD I DO IF THERE IS A HURRICANE?
Before the Storm
The best way to protect yourself and your family from the effects of a hurricane is to be prepared.
*Plan and practice evacuation routes. Your community may have a designated route, contact the local emergency management agency for details.
*Assemble a disaster supply kit (see below, or click on Family Preparedness Guide in ‘Links to Related Web Sites’).
*Protect your windows.
*Develop an emergency communication plan. If family members get separated during a disaster it is helpful to have a friend or relative, outside the impacted area, who can be contacted and told everyone is ok.
During a Watch
*Listen to radio WBZ 1030 AM radio and television for hurricane reports.
*Check emergency supplies.
*Fuel car.
*Bring in objects such as toys or patio furniture. Anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
*Secure windows with shutters, boards or tape.
*Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, etc.
*Review evacuation plan.
During a Warning
*Listen constantly to radio or television for updates and instructions.
*If in a mobile home, evacuate immediately.
*Store valuables in waterproof containers on high levels to avoid water damage from flooding.
*Elevate furniture to protect it from water damage.
*Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
*Bring pre-assembled emergency supply kit and warm protective clothing.
*Lock up home and leave.
After the Storm
*Stay tuned to local radio and television stations for information on returning to your home.
*Help injured or trapped people.
*Avoid loose or dangling power lines. Report them immediately to utility companies police or fire departments.
*Beware of animals, insects and snakes that may have entered your home.
*Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
*Check refrigerated foods for spoilage.
*Take pictures of the house and damaged goods for insurance claims.
*Drive only if necessary, rescue and maintenance crews need to be able to travel freely.
*Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
DISASTER KIT
*Foods (canned goods and nonperishable foods) that do not need cooking.
*Utensils, such as, a manual can opener, disposable plates, cups, forks, knives, spoons, etc.
*Drinking water in non-breakable containers (1 gallon per person/day).
*Special dietary food if required.
*Identification, valuable papers, policies and photographs in a waterproof container.
*Personal hygiene items, such as soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, washcloth, towels, sanitary items.
*First aid kit
*Medications, prescriptions and over the counter, such as aspirin and antacid.
*Specific medical information .
*Personal aids, such as, eyeglasses, hearing aids, canes, etc.
*Infant care items, such as diapers, and formula.
*Books, magazines, toys.
*Battery-operated radio.
*Flashlight.
*Extra batteries.
*Matches.
*Portable outdoor camping stove or grill with fuel supply.
*Sleeping bag or blanket, sheet and pillow.
*Change of clothing.
*Rainwear.
*Toolkit.
*Container for your disaster supply kit; should be waterproof.
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