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Knowledge Centre Hurricane Preparedness for Households
Knowledge Centre Hurricane Preparedness for Households
| Hurricane Preparedness for Households |
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| Meteorology Knowledge |
 Family: Discuss preparation plans with your family. Purchase necessities when watch and warning advisories are issued. Items might include the following: • Sand bags to stop the flow of water. • Plywood for doors and windows. • Wood beams to brace walls/doors. • Caps/plastic to plug cistern overflow and prevent contamination. • Plastic garbage bags for waterproofing. • Nails, hammers, saws, wires, ropes and pliers. • Water boots and raincoats. Ensure that the roof covering is secure, seal off spaces between roof and supports. Conduct a thorough check of hurricane shutters and latches. Trim old tree branches. Make a list of personal items such as furnishings, clothing and valuables for insurance purposes. Take photos of the inside and outside of dwelling. Review insurance requirements for submitting claims and keep policies, list of personal items and valuables in a safe place such as a safety deposit box. At A Warning: Listen to the radio for advisories. Put together a survival kit. This survival kit consists of: • Nonperishable food to last 14 days. • Pet food. • Basic cooking and eating utensils and can opener. • First aid kit. • Flashlight and batteries. • Radio and batteries. • Hammer and nails. • Sleeping bags/pillows. • Candles and butane lighter, matches. • Drinking water; at least 1 quart per person per day, more if possible. • Toiletries, medication, diapers etc. • Bleach and detergents for clean up and disinfecting items. • Basic clothing. • Cooler, charcoal. • Valuables wrapped in plastic bags. That is, deeds, licenses, insurance documents, list of personal items etc. Close storm shutters and doors; protect windows with boards, shutters or tape. Take all loose items inside. Have emergency money on hand. Fill the tank of gas in vehicle and/or boat. Check the car battery. Remain calm and do not leave the house until advised that all is clear. Secure objects around your home that may fly away and cause danger. Unplug all electrical equipment. Ensure that you have adequate utensils for storing water. During the Hurricane: Remain indoors and listen to the radio for advisories. Following the storm, there is a lull in the wind (eye of the storm) lasting for 1 or more hours. Do not go outside except to conduct emergency repairs. After the Hurricane: Avoid disaster areas. Use extreme caution to avoid damaged areas. Stay clear of puddles where downed lines may have landed. Advise relatives of your safety; keep telephone lines clear for emergencies. Do not touch fallen or low hanging wires. Report downed sparking power lines or electrical equipment. In case of evacuation: • Listen to the radio for evacuation advisories and further information. • Take your portable survival kit with you. • Check for and eliminate spoilt food. • Shut off utilities. • Lock your home. • Travel in daylight if possible. • For medical problems or pregnancy, check in with your doctor or hospital. • If you have no transportation, make plans to travel with your neighbors. • Be cautious and avoid downed wires, trees, damaged buildings and escaping gas. • Be aware of insects and animals driven to higher dry ground. |