Hurricane season is now in full swing. Make sure you are prepared for any approaching storms with our hurricane preparation checklist below.
Gather Important Information:
Make note of important phone numbers and information:
Nearest Hurricane Shelter
Map of Evacuation Route(s)
Local Police Department
Local Fire Department
Insurance Company, Phone Number and Policy Number
Notify friends and family of your plan
Protect your Property:
Park vehicles against the garage door and keep the gas tank full.
Move furniture away from exposed windows and doors.
Take all pets indoors to shelter them from the storm.
Fill bathtubs and sinks with water in case water supply is interrupted or contaminated; turn off main water to the house.
Garden tools, awnings, and grills should be anchored or sheltered.
Set the refrigerator on maximum cold; do not open unless necessary; keep a full stock of non-perishable items and canned foods.
Stay in a central room or on the downwind side of the house; move to another room as wind direction changes.
Close all windows.
Install storm shutters (If you are not able to install shutters, please notify the office) *Disregard if the home does not have shutters.
Bring all lawn furniture inside or store it.
Turn off propane tanks.
Turn off main gas valve before the storm hits.
Prune dead or dying tree limbs.
Keep swimming pools filled to 12 inches below the edge; cover the filter pump and turn off the electricity; add additional chlorine.
Lower radio and television antennas, protect satellite dishes.
Close all outdoor electrical outlets and cover with duct tape.
Secure garage and porch doors.
Be sure all appliances are turned off (excluding your fridge). Double-check to make sure all burners on the stove are off to avoid potential fires when power kicks back on.
Red Cross Supply Checklist:
Provided by The Red Cross – (View PDF)
Water at least a 3‐day supply; one gallon per person per day.
Food—at least a 3‐day supply of non‐perishable, easy‐to‐prepare food.
Battery‐powered or hand‐crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible).
Extra batteries.
First aid kit.
Medications (7‐day supply) and medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
Multi‐purpose tool
Sanitation and personal hygiene items
Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
Cell phone with chargers
Family and emergency contact information
Extra cash
Emergency blanket
Map(s) of the area
Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)
Tools/supplies for securing your home
Extra set of car keys and house keys
Extra clothing, hat, and sturdy shoes
Rain gear
Insect repellent and sunscreen
Camera for photos of the damage
Checklist for After the Hurricane:
Provided by The Red Cross – (View PDF)
Let your family know you’re safe.
Continue listening to NOAA Weather Radio or the local news for the latest updates.
Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding even after the hurricane or tropical storm has ended.
If you evacuated, return home only when officials say it is safe.
Drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed‐out bridges.
Keep away from loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company.
Stay out of any building that has water around it.
Inspect your home for damage.
Take pictures of damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.
Use flashlights in the dark. Do NOT use candles.
Avoid drinking or preparing food with tap water until you are sure it’s not contaminated.
Check refrigerated food for spoilage. If in doubt, throw it out.
Wear protective clothing and be cautious when cleaning up to avoid injury.
Watch animals closely and keep them under your direct control.
Use the telephone only for emergency calls.
If you have any questions on how you can better prepare yourself or your home for a hurricane, please call our office at 239-549-6611.
