Hurricane Safety Plan

The National Hurricane Center designates hurricane season as June 1 through Nov. 30 in the Atlantic; and May 15 through Nov. 30 in the eastern Pacific. The peak threat in the United States is mid-August through late October. It's important to take action, via the development of a hurricane safety plan, to address hurricane hazards.

History

• Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans, La., and is the most costly destruction in U.S. history.

  Lack of awareness and preparedness are common denominators in major hurricane disasters. In 1900, Galveston, Texas became ground zero for deadliest hurricane in U.S. history, when--without warning--about 8,000 people in the island city died amid 15-foot waves and 130 mph winds. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina hit Louisiana and Mississippi, becoming the country's most costly and third deadliest hurricane.

Geography

• Hurricanes threaten more lives as populations increase along the coastlines.

  As coastal populations increase, hurricanes have become a more costly threat. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hurricanes are most likely to strike Miami, Florida; Cape Hatteras, North Carolina; and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Barrier islands such as the Outer Banks in North Carolina also are vulnerable, as are the Florida Keys and New Orleans, Louisiana. Coastal area residents should anticipate evacuation. Inland areas face greater destruction from hurricane-spawned winds, tornadoes and floods.

Warning and Watch Significance

• Meteorologist have answers that can save lives.

  Understand risks in your area to know how - and when - to respond to weather alerts issued by the NOAA, the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the National Weather Service (NWS) and local officials. A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions possible within 36 hours. A hurricane warning means conditions expected within 24 hours.

Plan Details

• Planning ahead saves time during an emergency.

  Long before hurricane season debuts, draft a hurricane safety plan by researching important information. Plant details should include: hurricane safety/first-aid training in your area; safe routes inland; official shelters; a community safety plan; confirmation of an insurance policy that covers flood and wind; safe storage for cars/boats; photocopies of ID, credit cards, insurance papers, birth certificates; photo/video property and contents; alternate transportation; safe haven for pets; meeting place in case of separation; and emergency contact numbers.

Supply Considerations

• The right supplies increases hurricane preparedness - and reduces destruction and loss.

  Whether you evacuate or stay at home, life-saving supplies at your fingertips help reduce potential hurricane-related destruction, loss and inconvenience. Have on hand three to five day supplies of clean containers of water (about 5 gallons per person) and non-perishable food; first-aid kit and instructions; extra batteries for radio, flashlight, spotlight and cellphones; blankets; chlorine or iodine tablets, or regular household bleach to purify water; prescription medications and medical equipment; instant baby formula, diapers and other necessities; disposable wipes for cleaning; soap, toothpaste, deodorant and other personal hygiene items; and extra cash.

Additional Considerations

• Early preparation allows early action.

  Weather alerts allow time to protect yourself, and your property. Plan to:
  monitor radio/television updates; listen for sirens/warning signals; test battery-powered flashlights and radios; trim trees and shrubs; shield windows and doors; clear loose items on and outside house (gutters, lawn furniture, grill and bicycles); service cars, fill gasoline tanks; set thermostats on coolest temperature; and prepare to turn off electricity, gas, water, and unplug appliances.

During and After the Storm

• Accessing damages is an action step after the storm.

  If you remain home or you evacuate and must await clearance to return home, your safety plan extends beyond the hurricane's aftermath. Hurricane safety follows a similar plan -- no matter from where you survived -- during the calm after the storm. Preparation boosts confidence at a scary time. During a storm, stay away from windows and exterior doors and seek safety in an interior room, bathroom or basement. During evacuation, monitor updates and advice on weather, road conditions and return home only after authorities say it's okay.