Hurricane Safety

The Atlantic hurricane season begins in June and lasts through the end of November. There are simple steps families can take before and after a storm that will go a long way toward increased hurricane safety. Being prepared starts with having a conversation. Talk about the kinds of things that can happen in your area. Develop a family communication plan and assemble disaster supply kits that are stored in an identified place in the home.

By following these hurricane preparedness guidelines, you can increase your family’s safety as well as the stability and security of your home.

• If you live in a coastal area, install hurricane shutters to protect windows and doors from powerful winds.
• Remove dead and diseased trees and branches. Weak trees and branches are easily broken off by hurricane winds and may damage a home.
• Identify items in the yard that should be brought inside in case of a hurricane. Items such as lawn furniture and trash cans may become airborne during a severe storm.
• If in a coastal community, elevate the home. This can help minimize the damage to property because of floods and storm surges.
• Hurricanes bring intense rainfall. Keep rain gutters, outside stairwells, window wells, drain lines and down sprouts clean to prevent flooding.
• Ask an insurance agent or local emergency management office for information about the National Flood Insurance Program. Regular homeowner policies do not cover damage from flooding that may result from a hurricane.
• Every family should have a disaster plan which helps avoid or lessen the impact of a natural disaster. Use Home Safety Council guidelines to develop a family emergency plan and create a disaster supply kit.
• During a storm, gather your family in the safest area of your home, an interior room without windows, usually on the first floor of the house or building.
• Always follow official instructions before, during and after a hurricane. If evacuation was necessary, do not return home until authorities say to do so.
• After returning home, stay away from all storm damaged areas.