HOW TO PREPARE FOR A HURRICANE:

How to Prepare for a Hurricane:
Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over ocean water and often move toward land. Threats from hurricanes include high winds, heavy rainfall, storm surge, coastal and inland flooding, rip currents, and tornadoes. The heavy winds of hurricanes can cause damage or destroy homes, buildings, and roads, as well as cause power, water, and gas outages. These effects can injure or kill people, disrupt transportation, and pollute drinking water. Hurricanes cause deaths and injuries primarily from drowning, wind, and wind-borne debris. The impact from hurricanes can extend from the coast to several hundred miles inland. To find your risk, visit FEMA’s “Know Your Risk Map.”

DURING/SURVIVE:
Follow guidance from local authorities. If advised to evacuate, grab your “go bag” and leave immediately. For protection from high winds, stay away from windows and seek shelter on the lowest level in an interior room. Move to higher ground if there is flooding or a flood warning. Turn Around Don’t Drown.® Never walk or drive on flooded roads or through water. Call 9-1-1 if you are in life threatening danger.

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS CHECKLIST
The right time to prepare for a hurricane is now. This helpful checklist will get you started. Make sure to include your entire family in the preparation and discuss your emergency plan with them. Post this checklist in an easily accessible location so it’s always close by. Remember to keep in mind your family’s unique needs as you complete the checklist.

BEFORE A HURRICANE–Stock your emergency kit and “go bag” with the following:

EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION
Important contact information for family, school, work, doctors, etc., including phone numbers and email addresses, Cellular phone, extra battery, and chargers for electrical equipment AM/FM radio/NOAA Weather Radio (extra batteries).

MEDICAL NEEDS
Medications for at least one week and copies of prescriptions, Extra eyeglasses/contact lenses, Medical equipment/assistive, technology and backup batteries First aid kit.

CRITICAL DOCUMENTS
Photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport), Cash and credit cards, Personal records (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates), Medical records, Financial information (e.g., bank, account or credit card information), Property records (e.g., insurance, policies, deed, or lease), Waterproof, portable container for
important documents.

TOOLS & SAFETY ITEMS
Flashlight, Multi-purpose tool, Matches or lighter in waterproof, container, Whistle.

FOOD/SUPPLIES
At least a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food, Infant formula and diapers, Pet food, supplies, and extra water.

HYGIENE & SANITATION
Soap/disinfectant/sanitizer, Paper towels/moist towelettes, Toilet paper, Bleach, Toothbrush and toothpaste.

PROTECTIVE GEAR & CLOTHING
Extra warm clothes, Sturdy shoes, Blankets or sleeping bags.

COMFORT & PRICELESS ITEMS
Items like: books, puzzles, favorite, stuffed toy, photo albums, valuables.

DURING A HURRICANE

When a tropical storm or hurricane watch is issued, it’s important to stay informed.

In case of evacuation, grab your
“go bag” and leave immediately.

Emergency Contacts:
FEMA’s helpline: 1-800-621-FEMA
TTY: 1-800-462-7585
VRS: 1-800-621-3362
Red Cross’s helpline: 1-800-733-2727

Source: www.ready.gov/prepare