DISASTER PLANNING

HURRICANE PLANS

"Preventing the loss of life and minimizing the damage to property from hurricanes are responsibilities that are shared by all."

Throughout this website, information has been provided regarding actions that you can take based on specific hurricane hazards. The most important thing that you can do is to be informed and prepared. Disaster prevention includes both being prepared as well as reducing damages (mitigation).

Should I Evacuate?

One of the most important decisions you will have to make is "Should I Evacuate?" If you are asked to evacuate, you should do so without delay. But unless you live in a coastal or low-lying area, an area that floods frequently, or in manufactured housing, it is unlikely that emergency managers will ask you to evacuate.

That means that it is important for you and your family to HAVE A PLAN that makes you as safe as possible in your home. Your family's plan should be based on your vulnerability to the Hurricane Hazards. You should keep a written plan and share your plan with other friends or family.

1. Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family.
2. Know your home's vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.
3. Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane hazard. In certain circumstances the safest areas may not be your home but within your community.
4. Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet. These should be measured in tens of miles rather than hundreds of miles.
5. Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact.
6. Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
7. Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
8. Check your insurance coverage for flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance.
9. Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a Disaster Supply Kit .
10. Use a NOAA weather radio. Remember to replace its battery every 6 months, as you do with your smoke detectors.
11. Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.

Disaster Supply Kit

There are certain items you need to have regardless of where you ride out a hurricane. The disaster supply kit is a useful tool when you evacuate as well as making you as safe as possible in your home. The following is guidance on building a Disaster Supply Kit. Your needs may require the addition of other items.

Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days.
Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days.
Blankets/Pillows, etc.
Clothing
Seasonal/Rain Gear/Sturdy Shoes
First Aid Kit/Medicines/Prescription Drugs
Special Items - for babies and the elderly
Toiletries - hygiene items
Moisture wipes
Flashlight/batteries
Radio
Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
Cash- banks and ATM’s may not be open or available for extended periods.
Keys
Toys, books and games
Important documents in a waterproof container
Tools - keep a set with you during the storm.
Vehicle fuel tanks filled
Pet Care Items