Planning for a Hurricane

9/12/2017 (Permalink)

Planning for a Hurricane in Nassau Bay

Coastal hurricanes can be made less severe by taking these simple steps.

1. Plan Ahead
2. Heed Authorities
3. Stay Calm

Plan Ahead
• Pack a "go bag" backpack with all the necessary supplies, such as food water, and all of the other essential supplies that you will need.
• Put important documents, such as medical information, identification, insurance policies, and official documents into an easily accessible waterproof container. .
• Put together a plan including your destination if you are to evacuate, as well as the time and means of family members contacting one another once away from the area. Make sure gas tanks are full.
• Unplug small appliances in your home, turn off propane tanks, and eliminate all potential safety hazards. Put your freezer and refrigerator on the coldest settings and keep them closed, so that the coolness is retained in case of a power outage.
• Close hurricane shutters, doors, and windows, when you leave. If there are no hurricane shutters, close and board up doors and windows with plywood.

Heed Authorities
• Listen to the local news or a NOAA Weather Radio for updates.
• Only return home when officials declare it safe.
• If you live in a home that is not sturdy enough to withstand the wind, such as a mobile home, evacuate early.

Stay Calm
• Practice your hurricane escape plan beforehand so that you are well prepared.
• Avoid washed out bridges, flooded roads, and other unnecessary risks. Use your road maps to find safe escape routes.
• Give children fun activities to do and reassure them that everyone will be staying together.