Before The Hurricane Arrives
Take some time to consider the following safety precautions.
Don't get stranded. Leave early. Get away from low-lying beach areas or other locations which may be affected by Storm Surge. Storm Surge causes most hurricane related deaths. Normally, Evacuation Notices are issued related to Storm Surge expectations, not Hurricane force winds.
Be alert for hurricane and tropical storm advisories. Listen to local radio and television reports. AM/FM weather alert radios are highly recommended. Tune your weather radio or web page link to NOAA Weather to get information about storms (Visit the public service Panel Channels® Emergency Links Page).
Protect windows and glass doors with Hurricane Panels. Half of home owners polled believe masking tape will keep windows from shattering. Masking tape offers no protection from airborne hurricane missiles. Sturdy Hurricane panels or other recommended protection for windows and glass doors are the first priority in hurricane protection. Click here to see our Panel Channels® Kits
Secure loose objects in your yard. Anchor them steadily or move them indoors. Massive damage occurs during hurricanes from airborne debris.
Keep on hand - Nonperishable Foods - which can be eaten without cooking. Gas and electric services necessary for refrigeration and cooking may not be available during and after a hurricane for several days.
Store drinking water in case the public water supply becomes contaminated.
Check flashlights and keep a battery-operated radio, preferably an AM/FM weather alert radio, on hand and maintain a fresh supply of extra batteries. (The Midland® weather alert radios are highly recommended by emergency agencies.)
Fill your bathtub with extra water for flushing the toilet.
Gas up your car. Electrical power is required to operate gas pumps.
During The Hurricane
Stay home if your house is out of danger. As long as it's sturdily built, it's probably the best place to weather the storm. Stay away from unprotected windows and glass doors. Do not partially open your windows, this recommendation is a false rumor.
Stay indoors unless you're told to evacuate due to storm surge. Travel is extremely hazardous when winds and tides are whipping through your area. In most cases, emergency evacuation notices relate to storm surge conditions, not to the wind conditions. Storm surge is the major cause of hurricane related damage.
After the Hurricane
The aftermath of a hurricane can be dangerous.
The following outlines important things to do after the storm has passed.
Beware of damaged utilities - Watch out for loose or dangling electric power lines. Many lives are lost by electrocution after hurricanes.
Beware of natural gas leaks. Report all gas and electrical problems to the proper authorities.
Walk and drive cautiously - Debris-filled streets are dangerous. Snakes and poisonous insects may be a hazard. Washouts may weaken roads and bridge structures that could collapse under vehicle weight.
Be aware of spoiled food - Food may spoil if refrigerator power is off more than a few hours. Freezers will keep food for several days if doors are not opened after power failure.
Do not use water until it's safe - Use your emergency supply or boil water before drinking until you receive official word that the water is safe. Report broken sewer or water mains to the proper authorities.
