When a hurricane watch is issued, you should:
In advance, if
possible, buy cans of food which open with a snap ring, so you will not need a
can opener. Look for store specials on these items, such as Chef Boyardee
spaghetti, etc. and stockpile ahead of time if you can. I know you have
can openers, but in a disaster, sometimes folks forget which box the can opener
is in, due to the high stress of the impending hurricane. This way, you
just SNAP open your food.
Fill your automobile's gas tank.
Fill your clean water containers.
Bottled
Water Suppliers
What is
Spring Water?
Review your emergency plans and supplies, checking to see if any items are
missing.
BUY MANY MORE THAN YOU THINK YOU WILL NEED OF BATTERIES FOR YOUR RADIOS AND
BATTERY-OPERATED TV. During Wilma, we had NO electric for over 3 weeks.
Listen for disaster sirens and warning signals.
Prepare an emergency kit for your car with food, flares, booster cables, maps,
tools, a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, sleeping bags, etc.
Secure any items outside which may damage property in a storm, such as bicycles,
grills, propane tanks, etc.
Cover windows and doors with plywood or boards or place large strips of masking
tape or adhesive tape on the windows to reduce the risk of breakage and flying
glass.
Put livestock and family pets in a safe area. Due to food and sanitation
requirements, emergency shelters cannot accept animals.
Place vehicles under secure cover, if possible.
Fill sinks and bathtubs with water as an extra supply for washing and flushing
toilets..
Adjust the thermostat on refrigerators and freezers to the coolest possible
temperature.
If You are Ordered to Evacuate
Because of the destructive power of a hurricane, you should never ignore an
evacuation order. Authorities will be most likely to direct you to leave if you
are in a low-lying area, or within the greatest potential path of the storm. Be
aware that most shelters and some hotels do not accept pets. If a hurricane
warning is issued for your area or you are directed by authorities to evacuate
the area:
Take only essential items with you.
If you have time, turn off the gas, electricity, and water.
Disconnect appliances to reduce the likelihood of electrical shock when power is
restored.
Make sure your automobile's emergency kit is ready.
Follow the designated evacuation routes—others may be blocked—and expect heavy
traffic.
If You Are Ordered NOT to Evacuate
The great majority of injuries during a hurricane are cuts caused by flying
glass or other debris. Other injuries include puncture wounds resulting from
exposed nails, metal, or glass, and bone fractures.
To get through the storm in the safest possible manner:
Monitor the radio or television for weather conditions, if possible.
Stay indoors until the authorities declare the storm is over.
Do not go outside, even if the weather appears to have calmed—the calm "eye" of
the storm can pass quickly, leaving you outside when strong winds resume.
Stay away from all windows and exterior doors, seeking shelter in a bathroom or
basement. Bathtubs can provide some shelter if you cover yourself with plywood
or other materials.
Prepare to evacuate to a shelter or to a neighbor's home if your home is
damaged, or if you are instructed to do so by emergency personnel.
Article from Center for Disease Control (CDC)
MORE GOOD ADVICE:
From the National Hurricane Center:
Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person
for 3 to 7 days
Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
— non-perishable packaged or canned food / juices
— foods for infants or the elderly
— snack foods
— non-electric can opener
— cooking tools / fuel
— paper plates / plastic utensils
Blankets / Pillows, etc.
Clothing - seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
First Aid Kit / Medicines / Prescription Drugs
Special Items - for babies and the elderly
Toiletries / Hygiene items / Moisture wipes
Flashlight / Batteries
Radio - Battery operated and NOAA weather radio
Cash - Banks and ATMs may not be open or available for extended periods.
Keys
Toys, Books and Games
Important documents - in a waterproof container
— insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
Vehicle fuel tanks filled
Pet care items
— proper identification / immunization records / medications
— ample supply of food and water
— a carrier or cage
— muzzle and leash
Post nasal drip, lose weight, diabetes, Alzheimer's, more
how to clean athletic shoes, get rid of roaches