Preparation for a Hurricane
by Patrick
A hurricane watch means that it is possible for a hurricane
to hit land within 36 hours. A hurricane warning means that it is expected for a
hurricane to hit land within 24 hours.
A good way to prepare for a
hurricane is to have a Disaster Supplies Kit. Keep these items together at all times:
Medication and first aid
kit
Canned food and
non-perishable foods
Manual can opener,
utensils, plates and bowls
Drinking water (at least
3 gallons of water per person)
A battery powered radio
Batteries
Flashlights
Any special items needed
for babies
(for example: diapers, baby food, formula, etc.)
Instructions that tell
you how to turn off power supply and water.
Put these items together when a
Hurricane Watch is issued:
Protective clothing
Items for people with
special needs
Household bleach
Pet supplies (food,
water, bed, dish, vaccination record, leash and collar)
Important papers like
insurance, passports, birth certificate
Cash
Full tank of gasoline in
cars
Water for general
purposes
Something to sleep in
(blankets or sleeping bags)
If you are going to evacuate be sure to make
plans for your pets! Will you put your pet in a kennel or let them remain at home?
Keep in mind that hurricane shelters and some motels will not accept pets.
If a Hurricane watch is issued do
the following things to prepare:
Listen to
weather reports on radio or TV
Bring in lawn furniture, trash cans, and anything else that can be
carried away by the strong winds.
Make plans to
board or protect windows and glass doors.
Maintain a full tank of gasoline in cars
Make sure you have plenty of batteries, drinking water, first aid
supplies, medication and non-perishable food.
If you are told to evacuate, remind your
family to:
Call friends and family
and let them know where you are going
Check on neighbors; make
sure they know of the evacuation order and have a ride to a safe place.
Lock windows and doors.
Take your Disaster Supply Kit with you!
If you live in an evacuation zone or in a mobile home, go inland
where it is safer. That's the best thing to do.
