Safety Tips
Before the Storm
- Agree on a meeting place and a method in case your family gets separated.
- Know your evacuation routes.
- Fill your gas tanks.
- Prepare a disaster/hurricane survival kit
- Bring in or tie down outdoor furniture.
- Determine if your home is flood prone.
- Find out where emergency or special needs shelters are.
- Bring a caregiver if possible. (They do not provide hands-on medical care.)
- Make arrangements for pets. They are not allowed in public shelters.
- Bring food, snacks, medicine, identification, valuable papers, sleeping bags, pillows, flashlights, batteries, battery operated radios and TV’s, cards, games, and books.
During the Storm
- Report any hazards
- Stay inside until an official “all clear is given”.
- Be aware of lightning.
- Fill the bathtub with water.
- Turn off all major electrical appliances to reduce damage. (water heater, air conditioner etc.)
- Stay away from windows, glass doors, and sky lights. Find a safe area in your home. (closet, interior room on the lower level of your home.)
- Turn off the main electrical breaker if there is a flood threat.
- Be prepared to evacuate.
After the Storm
- Do not touch trees or other objects that are in contact with power lines.
- Do not step in puddles with wires in them or near them.
- Do not touch low hanging wires.
- Do not call 911 except for life threatening emergencies.
- Be aware weakening roads, tree limbs, and porches.
- Check refrigerated food for spoilage.
- Do not operate charcoal grills, camping stoves, or generators indoors.