Preparing for a hurricane is crucial to ensure your safety and reduce damage to your property. Here’s a comprehensive list of hurricane preparation tips:
Before the Hurricane (Preparation Stage)
- Know Your Risk
- Find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone.
- Stay informed about local flood-prone areas.
- Make a Hurricane Plan
- Identify where you’ll go if you need to evacuate (friend’s house, shelter, hotel).
- Share your plan with family and establish a meeting point.
- Know multiple routes out of your area.
- Build an Emergency Kit
Stock enough supplies for at least 3–7 days:
- Water (1 gallon per person per day)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights and batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications and medical items
- Personal hygiene items
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Phone chargers & power banks
- Important documents in a waterproof container
- Cash (ATMs may not work)
- Pet food and supplies if applicable
- Prepare Your Home
- Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood.
- Bring in outdoor furniture, decorations, and anything not tied down.
- Check your roof, gutters, and drainage systems.
- Secure or brace garage doors.
- Fill your car’s gas tank.
- Test generators and have fuel ready (use safely—outdoors only).
When a Hurricane is Approaching
- Stay Informed
- Monitor local news, weather apps, or NOAA Weather Radio.
- Obey evacuation orders immediately.
- Don’t wait until the last minute to leave.
- Final Preparations
- Charge all electronics.
- Set refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings.
- Fill bathtubs and containers with water for cleaning and flushing toilets.
- Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
During the Hurricane
- Stay indoors and away from windows.
- Do not go outside during the “eye” of the storm—it’s only a temporary calm.
- Use flashlights, not candles (fire hazard).
- Monitor updates through your radio or phone.
After the Hurricane
- Wait for official notice before returning if evacuated.
- Avoid floodwaters—they may be contaminated or electrically charged.
- Check for structural damage before entering buildings.
- Take photos of damage for insurance claims.
- Watch out for downed power lines and gas leaks.