[StBernard] Preparation Starts Before Hurricanes Form

[Westley Annis]

Preparation Starts Before Hurricanes Form

By WeatherBug Meteorologist, Dan Pontoriero

After experiencing the devastating 2005 season, everyone needs to know what they can do to make sure they are prepared. Preparation plans are.

1.) Prepare a Disaster Kit.

Every home should contain a disaster kit, hurricane prone or not. Prepare your disaster kit with the following:

*	Stock up on 3 to 7 days worth of non-perishable food -- don’t forget the can opener. 
*	One gallon of drinking water per person per day for 3-7 days. 
*	Have flashlights for every person in the home. 
*	Include a battery-powered weather radio for updates on the situation of the disaster. 
*	Pillows and blankets. 
*	Supply of batteries. 
*	Cash. 
*	First Aid Kit. 

2.) Prepare Your Home

Every home should be ready for the hurricane season. Make sure your home is secure by following these tips:

*	Make safety improvements to your home. 
*	Strengthen areas that wind can enter such as the roof, window shutters, reinforced garage and front doors. 
*	Remember to check the building codes. They will reflect the lessons experts have learned from the 2005 season. 
*	Check with the local experts. They have the expertise for your area. 
*	Plywood should be cut and pre-drilled to fit windows and doors. 

3.) Prepare for your Family

A family disaster plan is also a great idea to have made up before the season begins. Be sure to discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, flooding, and wind.

*	Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hurricane hazard. 
*	Know where your local community shelter is located, in case your home is not safe. 
*	Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet. 
*	Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact; so all your family members have a single point of contact. 
*	Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate. Shelters and hotels often do not allow pets. 
*	Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911. 
*	Check your insurance coverage - flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance. 
*	Use a NOAA weather radio. Remember to replace its battery every 6 months, as you do with your smoke detectors. 
*	Attend First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes. 

4.) Prepare for Evacuation

It is very important to know your local evacuation route. Become familiar with it so when an evacuation is ordered, there will not be any confusion.

Evacuations are commonly called for places that are prone to flooding and storm surge. Check with local authorities to see if your house is in a flood-prone zone. If you are ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. 

*	Have an extra supply of fuel for your vehicle. 
*	Pack all medications. Have a copy of the prescription in case you need a refill or lose you medicine. 
*	Being fully prepared allows for a smoother ride through the storm and less damage to the home. 
*	If you are not in a flood-prone or low-lying area, evacuation orders are less likely. It is more crucial that you and your property are secured. 

Source: National Weather Service, Federal Emergency Management Agency.

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