Preparing for Hurricane Season: Shelter from the Storm

Staying safe during stormy season is a high priority for those of us living in changing climates and frequent hurricane areas. With the effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the world quickly learned how damaging a storm can be not only to the physical home, but also the impact on our day-to-day lives. Surviving a storm is a stressful event that can be potentially life-threatening and certainly life-changing. After or even during a severe storm, most day-to-day necessities and supplies are not always available; this is one reason why stockpiling and preparing well for hurricane season is so important.

This hurricane season in 2006 is expected to be similar to 2005. In an effort to mitigate the effects and dangers associated with these storms, here are some tips and strategies to be well-prepared:

1. Learn what areas of your home serve as potential hazards; you should know if you should leave your home in case of flooding (most people should), where the best fire exits are, and how sturdy your roof and windows may or may not be in the event of a heavy storm. 

2. Test your generator to make sure it works; you will not have the ability to repair or take care of it in the event of a severe storm.

3. Collect materials and supplies to board up windows. You can find self-mounting kits and supplies at your local hardware store 

4. Create an evacuation plan; make sure that all family members are aware of the procedure before a storm strikes out of the blue. If you live in a large residential building or complex, be sure that you know where all emergency exits and resources located. 

5. Know where the local shelters are, and create a ‘shelter bag’ stocked with blankets and supplies. Not all shelters have enough supplies for all attendants, so take your own to be safe. 

6. Learn if you live in a hazardous area prone to a storm surge, marine hazard, tornadoes, high winds, or inland flooding. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security provides resources for your geographic location. You can enter your location here to create a Hazard Map of your area.