From the Torcon WX Team and our COSWET-Program (Community Outreach Severe Weather Educational Training Program) Here is our Hurricane Preparedness: Family Guide
As a hurricane approaches, it’s crucial to be prepared. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help your family stay safe and informed:
Before the Storm:
Develop an evacuation plan: Determine escape routes and designate a safe meeting place outside your community.
Assemble a disaster supply kit:
A disaster kit is the most important thing when it comes to Severe Weather Preparedness. The following is a list of things all Emergency kits should have. It is also important to head to the pharmacy and make sure you have refills on all your medications. Most meds can be filled in a 90-Day Supply. You want to make sure you go to the Pharmacy well in advance of landfalling hurricanes. Your kit should be made out of something like a Plastic tub with a lid that can be easily moved. You may need more than one. Your kit should include the following.
– A 30-Day supply of medication for each family member.
– 3 days of drinking water for each family member.
– nonperishable food for atleast 3 days per family member.
– A manual can opener. You can buy MRE’s on Amazon.
– A first aid Kit and a flashlight for each family member and plenty of batteries.
– A charging device/Portable battery pack for charging phones.
– Pet food and medications.
– A Noaa weather radio so you can get weather updates and warnings.
– Important documents, ID’s, Birth Certificates, Social Security cards and marriage certificates, Passports.
These are the basics all Kits should have! You can also include board games and other things your family might need or want to help pass the time.
Secure your home:
Bring in outdoor objects, secure windows and doors, and consider protecting your home with hurricane shutters.
Make arrangements for pets: Ensure pets have identification tags, necessary vaccinations, and a safe place to stay, whether at home or with a trusted friend or family member. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS FENCED IN OR TIED UP OUTSIDE! In many states this is Felony Animal cruelty!
Charge devices:
Keep your phones, tablets, and laptops fully charged. Download weather apps and have backup power sources ready. You can purchase back up battery packs that allow you to charge your devices multiple times.
Stay informed:
Monitor weather updates from reputable sources like the National Hurricane Center and local news outlets and TORCON.
During the Storm:
Follow evacuation orders: If instructed to evacuate, do so immediately and safely.
Stay indoors: Avoid going outside during the storm, especially when there’s lightning or strong winds.
Unplug electronics: Disconnect appliances and electronics to prevent electrical fires.
Stay calm and informed: Listen to weather updates and follow instructions from local authorities.
After the Storm:
Check for damage: Inspect your home for structural damage and safety hazards.
Be cautious: Avoid walking on downed power lines or entering flooded areas.
Boil water: Until local authorities confirm the water is safe to drink, boil it before consumption.
Help your community: Volunteer to assist neighbors in need.
Generators:
If possible do not use generators until the storm has passed.
DO NOT PLACE YOUR GENORATOR INSIDE OR IN YOUR GARAGE!! YOU WILL DIE! Make sure your generators are outside your home and away from doors and windows. Many people die each hurricane season due to carbon monoxide poisoning from running generators inside garages and homes or near air intakes. Don’t do this!
Practice your plan:
Conduct drills with your family to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a hurricane.
Stay updated: Continue to monitor weather conditions and follow local advisories.
Be prepared for the unexpected: Hurricanes can be unpredictable. Be ready to adapt to changing circumstances.
If you have other family who live in the area have a designated meeting place for after the storm.