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Getting
Ready For A Hurricane
Hurricane
Supplies
Hurricane
Watch Planning
Hurricane
Warning Planning
Hurricane
Protection Products
During
A Hurricane
Other
Hurricane Information
After
The Hurricane Passes
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Complete this checklist before hurricane season:
- Learn the elevation of your area and find out if you're in an evacuation zone.
- Make a list of loose items outside your home that should be put inside or tied down such as garbage cans, plants, etc. Don't forget the TV antenna. Urge neighbors to do the same.
- Trim trees and bushes before hurricane season. Excess limbs can break windows and damage roofs.
- Install hurricane shutters that meet building code requirements.
- Inspect the roof for loose tiles or shingles and debris.
- The main electric breaker, water valve and gas valve may need to be shut off. Know their locations.
- Photograph or videotape your home and personal property.
1. MOBILE HOMES
A mobile home is vulnerable to wind and water damage during a hurricane. Although you must leave your mobile home before a storm, you can plan ahead to minimize property damage.
- Check with the county zoning office to ensure that the mobile home is installed to code.
- Check mobile home tie-downs for rust or breakage.
- Consider an inspection by local building officials.
- Know where to evacuate to.
2. APARTMENTS/CONDOS
Residents of high-rise buildings should be aware that winds are stronger at higher elevations.
- If you live on a high floor, and your building is outside the evacuation zone, you should relocate to the third floor or below.
- Condo owners should get hurricane shutters for all sliding glass doors and windows.
- Renters you are responsible for securing your area. Follow home-safety hurricane procedures, such as installing shutters.
- Buy renters or condo insurance for all personal property.
- Make sure the condo association has adequate insurance.
- Appoint floor captains to check on residents with special needs before and after a storm.
- Know the route to the nearest stairs. (Elevators may not work during and after a storm.)
3. EVACUATION PLANNING
It's important to plan an evacuation route before the storm hits. Only people in evacuation areas and/or vulnerable structures should evacuate, so as not to clog major highways.
- Decide where you'll stay and what route you'll take. It's best to stay at a protected dwelling inland within your county.
- If you live alone, consider "teaming-up" with a neighbor to work out an evacuation plan.
- If you must go to a shelter, stay tuned to the radio or TV for shelter information. Shelter locations may change.
- If someone in your home requires special attention or medical care, contact your County's "Special Needs Centers". Call your emergency management office for instructions.
4. SHELTER SUPPLY KIT
Supply kit items should be stored in easy to carry containers, such as a backpack or duffle bag. The following items are recommended by American Red Cross.
- Bottled water and packaged food
- Non-electric can opener and battery powered radio
- Change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes
- Blankets and pillows
- First aid kit, prescription medicine, and toiletries
- Cards, games and books
- Eyeglasses
- One flashlight per person, extra batteries
- Credit cards, cash and identification
- Extra set of car keys and a list of family physicians
- Special items for kids include: baby supplies, games and toys, favorite food, coloring books and crayons.
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