What to do during a hurricane ?
If a hurricane is approaching the area you live, please follow these instructions and security measures :
BEFORE a hurricane
- Listen to the radio or TV for information.
- Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8″ marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.
- Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure.This will reduce roof damage.
- Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed.
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
- Determine how and where to secure your boat.
- Consider building a safe room.
- Moor your boat if time permits.
- Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets.Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water.
- Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed.
- Remove any debris or loose items in your yard. Hurricane winds can pick up anything unsecured, creating damage to property when the debris hits.
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.Hurricanes often bring long periods of heavy rain. Providing clear drainage will help prevent misdirected flooding.
- If you live in a flood plain or are prone to flooding, also follow flood preparedness precautions.
DURING a hurricane
- Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed.
- Turn off propane tanks.· Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies.
- Monitor the radio or television for weather conditions, if possible.
- Stay indoors until the authorities declare the storm is over.
- Do not go outside, even if the weather appears to have calmed—the calm « eye » of the storm can pass quickly, leaving you outside when strong winds resume.
- Stay away from all windows and exterior doors, seeking shelter in a bathroom or basement. Bathtubs can provide some shelter if you cover yourself with plywood or other materials.
- Prepare to evacuate to a shelter or to a neighbor’s home if your home is damaged, or if you are instructed to do so by emergency personnel.
AFTER a hurricane
- Continue listening to local radio or television stations.
- Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding, even after the hurricane or tropical storm has weakened.
- Stay away from flood waters. Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
- Stay on firm ground. Moving water only six inches deep can sweep you off your feet.
- Help injured or trapped persons. Give first aid where appropriate.
- Help a neighbor who may require special assistance – infants, elderly people and people with disabilities.
- Avoid disaster areas.
- Avoid loose or dangling power lines.
- Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.Call an electrician for advice before using electricity, which may have received water damage.
- Stay out of the building if water remains around the building.Flood waters often undermine foundations, causing buildings to sink, floors to crack, or walls to collapse.
- Wear sturdy shoes.
- Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights when examining buildings.
- Examine walls, floors, doors, staircases, and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing.
- Inspect foundations for cracks or other damage.Cracks and damage to a foundation can render a building uninhabitable.
- Look for fire hazards.
- Check for gas leaks.
- Look for electrical system damage.
- Check for sewage and water line damage.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
- Check refrigerated food for spoilage.
- Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are certain it is not contaminated.
