Hurricane Preparation

Posted on September 12, 2018

Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1^st until November 30^th

The effects of hurricanes may be catastrophic even when proper measures are taken. Winds and rain can destroy power and water supplies quickly. Telephone lines get jammed because of the high amount calls and heavy rains increase the chances of floods. That's why it's very important to follow the guidelines of the local authorities and act responsibly before, during, and after.

Water:

A person usually needs about two quarts of water each day. Be aware that while water plumbing may work after the storm, said water may not be safe to drink.
Be sure to fill up your bathroom tub, in case there is a loss of water within your home. That water, while not safe for drinking, can be used for cleaning or bathroom usage.
Consider placement of sandbags around doors and sliding glass doors to protect from light flooding. Please be aware if you are in a flood zone and make proper preparation according to your situation.
If you are in a two floor home or higher, moving valuables to the second floor can protect them from potential flood damage.

Fuel and Energy:

Make sure to fill-up gas tanks in case fuel supply is disrupted in your area.
Spare batteries for essential electronics can be useful.
Be sure to charge USB battery banks as a backup, they can be used to charge your phone and other essential electronics.
Waterproof matches can be helpful but firestarters can also be useful as a last resort.
Candles or electric lanterns can be useful during the night, be prepared to use these sparingly based on the duration of the hurricane.

Other Tips:

Put away your important documents in waterproof bags.
Give your home insurance a call and ask them about any preventive actions that should be taken before a storm. In other words, don’t underestimate it.
Communication is frequently lost due to overloading of phone lines and/or structural loss of telephone lines or cell towers.
Put some of your valuables in a backpack in case quick retreat is necessary. Pack essential supplies.
First Aid Kits are extremely valuable and must be placed in an area which is easily accessed. Ensure all parties in your household are aware of the location.
Be aware of your surroundings. Neighbors, police stations, hospitals, and schools are all resources which should be looked into when in an emergency situation. They can provide a wealth of information regarding emergency shelters or resources.
While normally hurricanes tend to slow in power as they hit land, expend storms and rain to possibly continue for days afters.
Move any furniture or equipment indoors. Anything that is tie or anchored to the ground may become a deadly projectile as the hurricane advances.
Be aware of the EYE. Depending on your area, some will be exposed to the eye of the a hurricane and will experience a brief calm. Do not go outside as the timeframe of this calm my leave you fully exposed to the full strength.

If you own an EPIRB please read our safety tips to prevent false activation. Also, make sure to carry your personal locator beacon with you, which can be a lifesaving equipment if you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation and your cellphone is not working. They don’t depend on regular cell phone frequency. A PLB will communicate directly with USCG or AFRCC or any local authority and they will be able to find you wherever you are, given the current conditions.

You can stay up-to-date with your local news and local authorities’ social media channels. Also, you can access some of the links below for a more detailed list of precautions.

Check the Hurricane Safety Graphics on FEMA website
NHSI has a checklist of essentials. Download
Alabama.gov
Hurricance Michael Evacuation Routes:
- National Hurricane Center
- Florida Disaster