Storm/Hurricane Preparedness Tips

Stay informed when a major storm is coming by following NOAA Weather Radio or your local news channels for updates. In addition, make sure to obey all orders if requested to evacuate by the authorities. Follow these hurricane and storm preparation steps to keep your home and loved ones safe before disaster strikes.

Make a plan
If evacuation is necessary, turn off all utilities and follow community disaster preparedness plans. Select a common meeting place or single point of contact for all family members. If you have pets, have a plan for their evacuation as well.

Secure the exterior
Trim large trees and shrubs and bring outdoor patio furniture, potted plants, bikes, and toys indoors. If necessary, secure outdoor sculptures with burlap or blankets tied with rope. Protect windows, doors, and skylights with appropriate shutters or impact-resistant glass. You can nail pieces of plywood to window frames as last-minute protection.

Move your cars
Move cars to higher ground or park them in your garage against the garage doors. Do not park under trees, power lines, or in low-lying areas.

Power up
Fill your car’s gas tank, charge your cell phone, test your generator, and have plenty of fuel-ready in case of power outages.

Unplug appliances
Move appliances and household fixtures away from exterior doors and window openings. Store them in cabinets or interior closets.

Store important documents
Keep important documents, such as legal papers, birth certificates, marriage licenses, financial papers, insurance policy information, and valuables, such as jewelry, in a safety deposit box or a bolted safe in an interior closet in your home.

Prep an emergency kit
Gather flashlights, a portable radio, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, cash, blankets, clothing, and toiletries.

Identify a shelter room
This enclosed area should be on the first floor, in the central part of the house, with no windows. Avoid all unprotected windows and doors until the storm passes.