How to Be Safe During a Hurricane

There is a hurricane period for the East Coast every year that starts on June first and doesn't end until the last day in November. All individuals who could be impacted by one should know how to stay safe. There are a number of things you can do to accomplish this. A few of them will need more of your attention and time, but there are others that are pretty much “common sense.” One of the most important things to do during a hurricane or any severe storm or natural disaster is to remain safe.

Things You'll Need

• Safe location
• Safe room (if possible)
• Hurricane supplies
• Family and pet plan
• NOAA weather radio

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Instructions

• 1

  Prepare far in advance of the hurricane. You will have several days of notice that a hurricane or other severe storm is approaching. Do not delay in preparing for it. If there is any thing you need to buy for your hurricane supply kit, do it far in advance of the storm. This is also the time to go over a family and pet plan. You can find information concerning all of these (and more) at the National Hurricane Centers website (see Resources).

• 2

  Designate a secure location. Heed all the warnings of local authorities. If an evacuation notice is given, leave the area immediately. If your home is safe, you should then choose a safe room within it. This is the place you want to be throughout the storm. The greatest choices are an interior room that could be a hallway, closet or bathroom.

• 3

  Understand the greatest hazard of hurricanes. High winds are often thought to be the most dangerous during a landfall storm, but this is not the case. Freshwater flooding and storm surges present the highest danger. For this reason, secure your home if it is in a low-lying or coastal area long before the storm arrives. Also never go in the water during or after a storm until you are certain it is safe. This includes water in the streets as well as in rivers, lakes, ponds, the ocean or any other body of water.

• 4

  Get ready for tornados. It is possible for tornados to form near the center of the hurricane up to hundreds of miles out. Stay tuned to your local news or radio stations for updates and warnings. You should also have a NOAA weather radio setup with your specific county codes. If any tornado watches or warnings are given, listen to the advice given by your local authorities.

• 5

  Comprehend your best protection against hurricanes. It is better to be prepared for the worst possible situation than to be sorry that you are not. Your best defense for this type of disaster is preparedness.