The National Hurricane Center near Miami constantly watches the North Atlantic, Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico ocean waters for tropical disturbances. When counter-clockwise circular movement reaches…
- 39 miles per hour they are tropical storms
- 74 miles per hour they are hurricanes
A hurricane’s most deadly force is usually the storm surge. Ocean tides rise dramatically, creating large waves which hit the shore with great force and far beyond the reach of normal waves. Hurricane Season is June 1 through November 30.
Before the Season Begins
Stock Your Home:
Food
Canned goods and manual can opener
Dry milk, boxed juices, etc.
Cereals
Peanut Butter
Dried fruits
Granola bars
Food and medications for pets
Water
Needs vary, depending on age and physical condition
One gallon per person per day is a good rule of thumb
Water for sanitary needs
Water for washing
Store in airtight containers. Replace water every two months to be sure it’s pure.
Medications
Cash (Remember stores may be unable to use bank cards and ATM machines may be down due to power outages).
Supplies
Battery-operated radio with extra batteries
Flashlight
Blankets or sleeping bags
Paper plates and utensils
Toiletries
We do not recommend candles.
Plan for Evacuation
When you evacuate, you may wish to take some of the supplies listed previously, but don’t take more than you can carry. If you are going to a public shelter, the most important items are your medications, a blanket, portable radio, clothes, small packaged quick-energy foods like raisins and granola bars.
Plan Ahead
Keep your gas tank full during hurricane season
Team up with a “partner” – a neighbor or friend – to plan your evacuation together. By sharing supplies and a ride, each of you can help the other.
Make advance plans to stay with friends or relatives living out of the hurricane’s path.
Learn the recommended evacuation routes in your area.
Stay Aware of Weather Conditions
Listen to a daily weather forecast during hurricane season.
Hurricane Watch does not mean unstable conditions are imminent. However, you should take preparatory action:
Stay tuned to local stations
Contact your “partner” to review plans
Check your emergency supplies, placing them in or near your car or front door.
Store away all objects on your lawn or patio which could be carried by the wind
Gather up important papers
Birth and marriage certificates
Wills and insurance policies
Deeds
Stock Certificates
When a Storm Threatens
Evacuate if you are in an evacuation zone or modular home
Stay tuned to local stations
Contact your partner and review your plans
Be sure your car is fueled and ready to go
Leave Early! Do not wait and get stranded in a traffic jam.
Do not stay in a modular home during a hurricane. Even if it is anchored and shuttered there is no guarantee it will withstand the strong winds or a hurricane.
During The Hurricane
If you were unable to evacuate, stay inside. Do not be fooled by the eye of the hurricane and its temporary period of peaceful weather conditions. The length of time within the eye varies from several minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the size of the storm. The larger and more intense the hurricane the larger the eye.
Stay away form windows and glass doors.
Continue to listen to your radio or television for hurricane updates and emergency information.
After The Hurricane
Wait for local authorities to announce when it is safe to return to your home.
Look for visible structural damage before you go inside. Watch for loose dangling electrical power lines and broken sewer, water, or gas lines. Notify local officials immediately if you see any.
Make sure all electrical outlets and appliances are dry and free of water before using them
Check your air conditioner both inside unit and outside to make sure it is free from water and/or debris that may have blown in it.
Do not drink water from the faucet until officially notified that it is safe from contamination.
Without electricity, food may have spoiled in just a few hours. Don’t eat it.
Snakes, animals, and insects instinctively travel inland to higher ground to escape. Expect them and be prepared to protect yourself.
|
