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It’s Hurricane Season: Safety Tips and What to do in case of an emergency
Hurricane season is here and you should always be prepared and ready in case of an emergency. Although hurricanes are detected early on, the speed and direction can change quickly. To help you plan for this crazy season, we have compiled some tips and steps to follow. When preparing, use this as a checklist!
WHAT TO DO BEFORE A HURRICANE:
» Pay attention to the weather channel and stay informed. Some local Houston news sites to help you along the way: Click 2 Houston, KTRK-ABC 13, KHOU-CBS, and The Weather Channel
» Know what to do and where to go in case a hurricane warning is issued, whether outside or inside. Also, make sure you know the escape routes from both the home and neighborhood and determine a meeting place for you and your family so that you stay together.
» Compile a first aid kit, nonperishable food items (prepare for up to 3 days for each individual), plenty of water, batteries, flashlight, supplies, appropriate tools, a weather radio, blankets, clothes, high profile documents (such as insurance), extra batteries and anything else you will need to ensure safety and health. Keep these supplies easily accessible so that you can grab and go to your safety place. If you have a back-up generator, be prepared to use that.
» Protect your home:
- In case of damage to your home, talk to your insurance provider about what will or will not be covered.
- Get your home checked out to make sure it can withstand the storm. For example, check to see if your home is up-to-date with building requirements. The more your home is strength-oriented, the better it will do against a storm.
- If able to use a saw and a hammer, board up your house with plywood.
- Trim trees/bushes and cut weak branches.
WHAT TO DO IF A HURRICANE WARNING/WATCH IS ISSUED:
» Move anything that is of light weight or that can be harmful to your home or yourself inside. All other equipment, chain down or any other secure method you prefer.
» Follow weather reports and always obey local advice, such as evacuations.
» Seal gable-end vents to keep water out of the attic. Also, for all outside openings use the highest quality silicone caulk. For all inside openings, use duct tape.
» Grab your safety kit.
» Stay away from low areas and go to a place with no windows, like a closet.
POST-HURRICANE:
» Before going outside, make sure that the storm has completely passed.
» When it is safe to go outside, continue using the food and water you packed.
» Report all damages to power lines and remain a safe distance away until they are fixed.
Lastly, remember that it is going to take time for everything to go back to normal, so take the time to visit neighbors and make sure everyone is okay. If you want, unchain that grill and have a little block party with whatever food items you prepared and turn on that portable radio to provide musical relief.
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