Hurricanes can strike when least expected! Preparation is key, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will share the latest information. Therefore tune in to your local radio or TV and watch out for updates. According to the following hurricane safety guide, there are many other practices to enhance your safety during hurricanes.
What to Do Before a Hurricane Strikes
Safety is key before a hurricane strikes, and there are various things to do to enhance your safety. First, be alert and check out public safety information and tips on what to do before, during, and after the hurricane. Know where to go for safety by finding out if there is a hurricane evacuation zone near you.
An emergency plan will also go a long way. Create one and review it with your family as you share more storm safety tips. If residing in a flood-prone zone, be ready to evacuate. Lastly, work with your health provider to determine how to access medical help when necessary.
What to Do When a Hurricane or Tropical Storm Is Approaching
STAY UPDATED AND REVIEW YOUR EMERGENCY PLAN
Keep tabs on the local news and updates. Being informed on local news is one of the best hurricane safety tips. Have an emergency plan and review it with your family members and loved ones. For instance, if your area is prone to flooding, have everything ready and be ready to evacuate.
If not, gather all you need since you may be unable to go out for a few days. Your emergency kit should include bottled drinking water, non-perishable food items, personal hygiene items, medications, documents, money, a first aid kit, and more.
PLAN FOR POWER OUTAGES
Power outages are common during hurricanes and storms and can be short-term or long-term. Prepare for this by completely charging your devices and backup batteries. Set your freezer to the highest cold settings, and freeze a mug of water in your freezer. Once the water in the mug is frozen solid, place a quarter on top of the ice. This trick helps keep track of the food in your freezer and lets you know if you lost power at any point and for how long.
Using solar power and backup batteries can effectively plan for power outages during a storm. Solar panels can generate electricity during the day, and the backup batteries can store that power at night or during periods of low sunlight. This plan can help ensure that essential equipment and appliances continue functioning even if the power grid goes down.
Lastly, store enough water for personal use and for flushing the toilets.
GET YOUR HOME READY!
Secure your outdoor furniture, toys, and anything else that may be washed away or damaged by floods. Bring them indoors and cover all the windows if you expect damage. Moreover, consider installing storm-impact doors and windows to safeguard your property against hurricane damage.
Elevate things in your basement and unplug electronics. Move your vehicles to higher ground and clean clogged gutters to ensure a smooth flow of rainwater.
What to Do During a Hurricane
Hurricanes can result in flooding making the roads impassable. Avoid driving or staying outdoors during storms. Avoid driving around road barriers or walking in flowing water if you must go out.
Stay updated on the latest weather updates. Follow instructions from government officials and try to earn as many hurricane safety tips from them as possible. If asked to evacuate, remember to carry your emergency kit and leave immediately.
Similarly, if advised to shelter in your home, avoid going outdoors and stay away from the windows as you can easily incur injuries from broken glass. Remember that hurricane-impact windows are high-impact resistant laminated glass making it easy to safeguard your entryways against storm damage. Be ready to evacuate anytime, for weather conditions may change rapidly.
What to Do After a Hurricane Has Passed
Most people rush outdoors once the storm has passed, but this does not mean you are out of danger. Here are hurricane safety tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe;
- Avoid driving on flooded roads and follow the warnings given.
- Wear a life jacket when going near flood water, particularly if the water is rising.
- Flood waters can harbor germs and other disease-causing organisms. Therefore wash your hands with soap or use a sanitizer or wipes.
- Keep off wet electrical devices.
- Turn off the power from the main circuit breaker.
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