Hurricane Instructions
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 and the location of the shelters. Use these links during the hurricane for updated town specific information.
- Assemble a disaster supply kit - see FEMA recommendations for disaster supply kit
- Make arrangements for pets. It is the policy of shelters not to allow pets. You may want to contact animal boarding facilities or hotels for emergency information.
- Protect your windows. Permanent shelters are the best protection, but plywood panels will also work.
- Purchase flood insurance.
- 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 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.
- Moor boats securely or remove them from the water.
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.
If Evacuation is Necessary
- Leave as soon as possible. Follow authorized evacuation routes.
- Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges.
- Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.
- Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies 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.
- Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to do so.
- Help injured or trapped people.
- Avoid loose or dangling power lines. Report them immediately to utility companies, police or the fire department.
- Enter your home with caution.
- Beware of animals, insects and snakes that may have entered your home in flood water.
- 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.