Preparing for a Hurricane
Who would have thought we would have an earthquake and then a hurricane in the NorthEast in the same week! Although we have had hurricanes here in NJ, they have been small and mild in comparison to what other parts of the country have experienced. Since Hurricane Irene seems to be headed directly to the Tri-State area, we all need to be prepared for the worst. So I have compiled some of the important ways to prepare for a hurricane.
Steps to Protect your family in a Hurricane
Step 1: Build an Emergency Kit / “To-Go Bag”
Emergency kit:
- water – 3 day supply (1 gallon per person per day)
- food – 3 day supply of non-perishable (shouldn’t be a problem for us couponers!)
- flashlight
- batter-powered radio
- extra batteries
- first aid kit
- medications (7 day supply) and medical items
- multi-purpose tool
- sanitation and personal hygiene items
- copies of personal documents
- cell phone with chargers (have them fully charged)
- family and emergency contact information
- extra cash
- emergency blanket
- map of the area
- baby supplies
- pet supplies
- car keys and house keys
- extra clothes
- rain gear
Step 2: Make a Plan
Evacuation Plan:
- Plan Places where your family will meet
- keep a half a tank of gas
- become familiar with alternate routes
- lock your door
- take your pets with you
- let someone know of your plan who is out of state
- Family Emergency Plan
Step 3: Be Informed
During a Hurricane:
- Listen to the radio or TV for information
- Secure your home
- turn of utilities if instructed to do so or turn refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting
- avoid using phone
- evacuate if told to do so or if you feel as if you are in danger
- stay away from windows and glass doors
- close all interior doors
- keep curtains and blinds closed
- take refuge in a small interior room if necessary
- lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object if necessary
What to do after a Hurricane:
- Listen to the NOAA weather radio
- stay alert for extended rain fall and flooding
- if you evacuated, return only when it is safe
- drive only if necessary
- keep away from loose or dangling power lines
- stay out of buildings with water around them
- inspect home for damage
- use flashlights in the dark, not candles
- wear protective clothes
- use phone for emergency calls only
Locate a Diaster Recovery Center
Inform your Kids: FEMA Ready Kids
Get updates from the National Weather Service
Hurricane Safety Checklist from the Red Cross
2 Great Resources are:
American Red Cross
FEMA