Ten Tips to Preparing for a Hurricane

There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the United States’ coastline is ravaged by hurricanes on a yearly basis. Although some years are quieter than others, usually an average of five hurricanes will strike at it every three years.

It is true that the winds in a hurricane are forceful - usually 100 miles per hour or more. With these winds come the devastating water surges, which can reach 20 or more feet high.

These storms are very dangerous and people should be prepared for their arrival. The months of June through November should have people who live on or near the water on high alert for rapidly forming and seemingly destructive hurricanes. It is wise that these months be designated to hurricane preparation.

There are 10 tips to follow when preparing for a hurricane. It is always best to keep these in mind, no matter if a hurricane is days away or hours away. Utilizing them way in advanced may be the difference between a home gone or lives lost.

Be Wary

Most coastal residents know that every hurricane that blows through has a different intensity than the one before. One hurricane can have little wind but lots of rain while another roars in with ferocious winds and light rain. It is best to be prepared whatever the hurricane decides to offer and take cover or seek shelter if need be.

Prepare a To-Do Yard List

Do you have lawn chairs in the back yard? What about a garden ornament or gardening tools? During a hurricane, these things can be tossed about and become projectile “missiles”. Make a list of things out in the yard that should be brought in before a hurricane strikes.

Do Some Trimming

When the winds on a hurricane begin, that isn’t the time to worry about the oak tree with large limbs over your home. It is imperative to keep the limbs of trees and shrubbery cut as often as one can. By doing this, it can cut down the risks of a collapsed home or other issues.

Clean and Drain
Should a home have gutters, it would be wise to clean these out before the hurricane hits. It is also important to be sure sewer drains are cleared of debris and are draining properly. By doing this, it cuts down on the unnecessary and preventable flooding that can occur with strong hurricanes that have long periods of heavy rain.

Use Hurricane Designed Shutters
These shutters, which are permanent for the doors and windows, are a safer alternative to taping glass. Glass can still break with the tape on the windows. Windows can also be protected with sheets of plywood.

Evacuation Plans
Despite all a person does, sometimes an evacuation is necessary so develop a plan. Coordinate with the local emergency management office or Red Cross officials. They can provide evacuation routes and determine which roads should be avoided. Officials can also inform residents were shelters will be located.

Blanket Preparation
It is necessary to have a sleeping bag and blanket for each member of the family should a shelter run be needed.

Pet Prep
Should you have an animal, it is already a member of your family. Do not forget their needs while rushing to cover your own. Find out what you can do for them. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina brought about many abandoned animals since people were forced out of their homes in a hurry by rising floodwaters.

Emergency Supplies

Always keep emergency supplies handy. These include: flashlight, radio, batteries for both, water, food, a can opener and first aid kit. Prescription medicine, if used, should also be included in with emergency supplies.

Before power goes out, turn the refrigerator temperature to its highest setting. By doing so, when the power goes out, the cooler air stays longer.

Lifting Your Home

If flooding or hurricanes are frequent in the area, then elevate your home to narrow down your chances of getting flooded.

It is always best to be prepared for the worst should it happen. Being over prepared is far better than being under prepared and caught off guard. Doing this can save your life, your family’s life and maybe even your belongings.