Hurricane Preparedness

Become familiar with your Evacuation Zone, the evacuation route, and shelter locations.
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Plan routes to local shelters, register family members with special medical needs as required and make plans for your pets to be cared for.
Inventory and photograph your home’s contents and put important papers and insurance policies in a safe place.
Install and maintain storm shutters. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.
Install a generator for emergencies.
Gather needed supplies for at least three days. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets.
Because standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to review your insurance policy to ensure coverage for hurricane damage and flooding.
Keep important documents in a safe place or create password-protected digital copies.
Register for the CodeRED alert system to receive announcements and timely notifications including flood warnings by telephone, cell phone, text, and e-mail.

Anchor or remove potential wind-borne objects.
Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on the building.
If you do not have hurricane shutters, close and board up all windows and doors with plywood.
Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so that food will last longer if the power goes out.
Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
Fill your car’s gas tank.
Charge your cell phone.
Restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include food and water sufficient for at least three days, medications, a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
Continue listening to a NOAA Weather Radio or the local news for the latest updates.
Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.
If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.
Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company.
Stay out of any building that has water around it.
Inspect your home for damage. Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.
Use flashlights in the dark. Do NOT use candles.
Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are sure it’s not contaminated.
Check refrigerated food for spoilage. If in doubt, throw it out.
Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up to avoid injury.
Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control.
Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.
Have cash on hand as ATM machines will not be operable in the event of a power outage.