Prepare for a Hurricane | |
Who should know better than the American Red Cross about how to prepare for extreme conditions and emergency situations during hurricane season? Here's their advise about planning ahead and preparing should the disaster occur in your area. The following tips will help you to respond appropriately in the event of a hurricane. If local authorities ask you to leave, do so right away. You will need as much time as possible to evacuate, due to higher-than-usual traffic volumes. If you are on a barrier island, or live in a mobile home or on a boat, you MUST evacuate well inland. If you are in a sturdy, masonry or wood building, only leave if told to do so; stay put if not advised to leave. This will lessen the possibility of traffic jams. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio and local television broadcasts for the latest information about the storm. Consult information provided by your local emergency management agency, sometimes published in telephone directories, showing "surge zones" and evacuation areas. Gather supplies, including a first aid kit, protective clothing and rain wear, canned foods, and at least three gallons of water (preferably more). Store food that doesn't require heating, and any items you may need for infants, elderly, or disabled family members. Also, include prescription medications, plus copies of the prescriptions, including dosage. Prepare your home for high winds with plywood panels cut to fit each window of your home. If high winds are expected for your area, cover your windows. After the storm, return only when local officials advise that it is safe to do so. If the power is out, use a flashlight. Do not use candles or other open flames indoors. Hurricanes are a threat to the United States and the Caribbean primarily during the months of June through November. For additional information on preparing for hurricanes and other disasters, contact your local American Red Cross. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary gifts of time and money from the American people. Reprinted with permission of the American Red Cross |