Hurricane - Emergency Preparedness

Before a Hurricane

To prepare for a hurricane, you should take the following measures: Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking. Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure, this will help reduce roof damage. Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed. Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts. Determine how and where to secure your boat. Consider building a safe room.

Evacuation plans

When community evacuations become necessary, local officials provide information to the public through the media.  In some circumstances, other warning methods, such as sirens or telephone calls, are also used.  Additionally, there may be circumstances under which you and your family feel threatened or endangered and you need to leave your home, school, or workplace to avoid these situations.

The amount of time you have to leave will depend on the hazard.  If the event is a weather condition, such as a hurricane that can be monitored, you might have a day or two to get ready.  However, many disasters allow no time for people to gather even the most basic necessities, which is why planning ahead is essential.

To further prepare you and your family in case of a hurricane ask local authorities about emergency evacuation routes and see if any maps are available with evacuation routes marked.