Hurricane Facts, Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale, Hurricane Preparedness

The Basic Things to Do

• Listen to local radio stations for official Civil Defense announcements and instructions.
• Evacuate, when advised, to sturdy buildings or public shelters.
• During a warning when sirens sound, cover windows with boards or tape.
• Secure loose objects that may blow away, such as outdoor furniture.
• Leave areas that may flood.
• Stay indoors during high winds; stay away from windows.
• Keep away from exterior walls and doors.
• "Be aware," the calm "eye" of the hurricane is deceptive.
• Turn off water/electricity at the main source to the house.
• Unplug all appliances.

Preparations

• Have a chosen meeting location that is somewhere other than your home.
• Have an evacuation and disaster kit ready that includes a radio and batteries.
• Prepare a personal evacuation plan.
• Assemble a disaster supplies kit.
• Have Flood Insurance.
• Install Hurricane storm shutters or precut lumber for windows.
• Remove branches and small trees that may fall on the house.
• Stock extra food, batteries and drinking water.

Hurricane