Hurricane Preparation

EARLY PREPARATION

Prepare a hurricane kit at the beginning of the season. After a storm's first warning, lines are long and supplies disappear fast.
Hardware items such as tools, heavy work gloves, and sheets of plywood and nails if you intend to cover windows.
Be sure to have a land line phone that doesn’t need electricity. Cell phones may not work and power may be out.
Emergency kit with flashlight with extra bulbs, battery operated radio, fully charged battery operated lanterns, batteries, matches, wind up or battery clock, plastic garbage bags, scissors, working fire extinguishers, inexpensive rabbit ear TV antenna, map of area, list of phone numbers and a copy of your insurance policy.
Medical supplies to include 2 week supply of all medications, insect repellent sprays, sunscreen, soap, first-aid kit and handbook, aspirin, diarrhea medication, antiseptic solution and disinfectant.
Kitchen supplies to include manual can opener, bottle opener, matches in a plastic bag, pocket knife, ice chests or coolers, paper plates and napkins, plastic cups, knives, forks and spoons.
Food items to store ahead of time. Don't forget bottled water and water purification tablets (ordinary household bleach that contains hypochlorite as its only active ingredient can also be used).

TWO DAYS BEFORE

ONE DAY BEFORE

Clear patio and yard of loose objects. Prepare patio screen enclosures by removing a 6 ft. panel on each side to allow wind to pass through.
Put all important documents in a safe, dry place.
Fill bathtub and water bottles.
Move valuables off the floor and move furniture away from windows.
Move TV, battery operated radio, flashlight and food to room where you're spending the hurricane.

DURING THE STORM

Close all interior doors and don't open any windows, not even a crack.
Closely monitor radio and TV.
Stay off the phone.
Don't light candles or kerosene lanterns.
Wait for the all-clear before going out. If winds die down, you may only be in the eye of the storm.

AFTER THE STORM

Only call 911 if there is a life-threatening situation.
Open doors and windows to let out noxious smells and gases.
Assume all lines are live. Don't use electrical appliances until dry.
Check for gas leaks. If pilot light is out, shut off gas at appliance supply valve (usually within 6 ft.).
Watch out for insects, snakes and animals - even alligators.
Start preparing a list of damage. Take photos or a video. Keep receipts of repairs, supplies, food, hotel etc.
Spray paint your telephone number, address and Insurance Company on a piece of wood or on the side of your house.

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