Guide to hurricane preparedness

The recent hurricane season in 2021 was a harsh reminder of how quickly a natural disaster can push the world into chaos. Hurricanes are one of the most dangerous natural disasters that can impact your life. To prepare for future storms, it is essential to understand what you need to do in advance. This article will guide you through some steps you can take to be ready when disaster strikes! 

How Do You Know A Hurricane Is Coming?

Hurricane season is the time of the year when hurricanes are most likely to occur. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, but some hurricanes can form any time of the year.

There is no predictable way to know when a hurricane will occur, so you need to be prepared for any emergency.

As a hurricane approaches, there are several ways to know it is going to be a threat. If the ocean temperature is near a number called the threshold, then a hurricane is likely. The threshold is the temperature below which a tropical disturbance can rapidly develop into a tropical depression, storm, or hurricane.

If the wind speeds are near the threshold, then it is likely you will have a hurricane. The 15- day wind speed forecast is the most reliable forecast you can have.

What should I do before a hurricane?

Hurricane season is upon us, so it's essential to prepare for these natural disasters. There are lots of things to consider before the season starts. The best way to prepare is to prepare! At the very least, you should know what to do and where and when. There are a few things you should do for storm preparation:

  • Know what kind of damage winds can cause
  • Check off your emergency supply list
  • Make sure your emergency plan is updated
  • Plan to Evacuate
  • Plan to Shelter Safely
  • Gather Emergency Supplies
  • Plan to Stay Connected
  • Learn Emergency Skills

Take steps to protect your home before a hurricane

Although hurricanes usually only hit the United States and its territories, they are still dangerous. Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage to homes, so people need to take steps to protect their homes.

  • Start by buying hurricane shutters or bringing them in from your attic so you can prevent windows from shattering.
  • If you have trees in your yard, cut them off to reduce the risk that strong winds will snap them off.
  • Ensure that your home is upwind of any water sources that could potentially fill with storm-generated flooding. To get started, you'll need to choose a shutting system and then install it.
  • Get a waterproof container to protect your important papers and documents.
  • Stock the house with food and water that can last for several days in case of an emergency.
  • A flashlight and a battery pack for your cellphone that can be used in a power outage.

What should you do during a hurricane?

Hurricane season is coming up. Here are some tips on hurricane season prep.

  • Consult your local weather station and know the evacuation route you will need to take in an emergency.
  • Try not to get too attached to your home or other property because it may get damaged or destroyed during the hurricane.
  • Turn off your electronics, including appliances, lights, fans, televisions, computers, cell phones.
  • Get your family in a safe place.
  • Get the all-important document you need in a waterproof container.
  • Get ready for flash floods.
  • Make sure your pets and animals are safe.
  • Make sure you have enough food.
  • Get a flashlight and battery pack in case of a power outage.
  • Make sure you have a hurricane kit.
  • Check out your emergency checklist.

How can you stay safe after a hurricane?

After a hurricane, it is vital to stay safe.  Below are a few helpful tips that will help you stay safe after a hurricane.

1. Stay Put

After a hurricane, it is important to stay put. This means you need to be indoors and away from windows and doors. It would be best if you stayed in a safe place, such as a closet or a hallway, where you won't be injured. Don't go outside until it is safe. You can monitor the weather on television or online.

2. Check on your neighbors

 After a hurricane, you can check on your neighbors. However, it's important not to go into someone else's house or yard unless it is safe to do so.

Look out for downed power lines, signs of flooding, and other dangers that could befall you.

3. Make a Declaration of Emergency

If there is a significant power outage, you will need to file for an emergency declaration from your insurance company. This means that the company will pay for necessary repairs to your home. This is a declaration of emergency, not an insurance claim.

Emergency kit checklist

When preparing for hurricane season, it is crucial to ensure the best emergency kit possible.

An emergency kit should include items that will keep your family safe during a natural disaster. It is also vital to keep the kit readily accessible so that everyone can find what they need when an emergency arises.

Below is a list of the items to prepare for hurricanes you should include in your emergency kit checklist to ensure that you are prepared for any possible disaster.

  • A flashlight
  • Extra batteries
  • Candles or lights with fuel\Matches (keep them dry) (keep these dry)
  • Materials and tools for emergency house repairs include thick plastic sheeting, plywood, a hammer, etc.
  • Prescription drugs
  • First-aid supplies
  • A portable NOAA weather radio
  • A wrench and other essential tools
  • Essential keys, ID cards, credit cards, and money for emergencies
  • A location directory of shelters, hospitals, police stations, and fire departments in the community
  • A contact list of numbers for any emergency service you may need

FAQ:

1.  What supplies do you need for hurricane season prep?

The most important supplies you need when preparing for a hurricane for yourself, your family, and your home are:

  • Food and Water
  • First Aid and Non-Prescription Drugs
  • Tools and Supplies
  • Sanitation, Clothing, and Bedding
  • Special Items
  • Possessions and Documents

2. why do you fill your bathtub with water during a hurricane?

The main reason why it's essential to fill your bathtub with water during a hurricane is that you can use it to store water for your family. It also helps to build up the surface tension of the water to stay on top of the storm surge.

3.  What is the safest place to be during a hurricane?

The safest place to be during a hurricane is on the second floor or above. If you can't get on the second floor, stay inside and close all windows and doors. If you live in an apartment, you must check with your landlord before going on vacation or leaving on a trip. They may have special hurricane plans in place that can help you and your family escape the storm safely.

4. Is it safe to be in the eye of a hurricane?

The hurricane's eye is the calmest part of the storm and will often stay safe for some time, but this is usually limited by time. When you are about to be in an area where there are hurricane or tropical-storm-force winds, you should take conservative precautions to survive if it turns out to be unsafe.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you'll need to prepare for hurricane season in the same way you would any other disaster. Make a hurricane prep list with your family and make sure to have a well-stocked emergency kit on hand in case you might need to evacuate. To get more of the latest news and information on hurricane season, be sure to check out the Hurricane Season Center.