Hurricane Safety Tips: Riding Out the Storm

Hurricanes can be very destructive and downright scary if you are not prepared for them. Here are a few tips to help you secure your home, create a supply kit and to keep you, your family, and your pets safe through a hurricane.

The important thing to remember when securing your home for a hurricane is strengthening the outside of your house against wind and debris. Secure your roof by fastening all shingles with quick-setting asphalt cement, or if you have gabled roofing use wood to build a brace to keep your roof intact. Windows should be covered with shutters or plywood. Make sure that your shutters do not allow flexibility when the wind is blowing on them. All shutters should be firm. When using plywood to cover your windows make sure that there are no holes or weak knots in the wood. Secure each sheet with screws and leave little to no space between your home and the plywood. Doors and garage doors must be secure and sturdy. Make sure that your garage door has metal bracing and does not allow much flexibility to the wind.

Create a hurricane supply kit before hurricane season. Last minute supplies are often hard to find right before a hurricane hits. You will need at least one gallon of water per person for up to seven days. Depending on the storm, the National Guard may not be able to get to you before seven days, especially if you are on an island. You will need enough food for each person for up to seven days as well. Make sure your food is non perishable and that you have plenty of plates and utensils to eat from. If anyone in your household takes medication and need it on a daily basis make sure that they have enough to last up to seven days. Some other important items include flashlights, batteries, battery operated radio, keys, cash (ATMs and banks may not be open for an excessive amount of time), toiletries, fully charged cellular phone, non-cordless telephone set, important documents enclosed in waterproof case or bags, toys or games for children, a tool set, pet care products, and full fuel tanks for each vehicle.