Hurricane Survival GuideTop
Hurricane season for Florida and the east coast is from June 1 to November 31
There are many relief agencies who provide help after a hurricane
but here are some things you can do to help yourself until you can benefit
from relief. Plan to be self sufficient for a week;
In case of evacuation the following items should be kept
together so nothing is forgotten :
One weeks supply of non-perishable food. Including canned foods and milk.
A 2 week supply of prescription drugs for each family member.
Cash or travelers checks
Blankets / sleeping bags / tent
Flashlights with extra batteries and bulbs
Bottled water, one gallon per person per day for at least one week.
Extra set of car keys
Important papers including valid ID, homeowners insurance policy etc..
An inventory list of all your belongings in the house
Personal valuables
Cooler
Personal products
Infant necessities including 2 week supply of disposable diapers
Emergency cooking equipment
non-electric can opener
Extra sets of clothing
Safety matches in waterproof container
Battery powered clock and radio with extra batteries
Plastic dropcloth
oil or butane lanterns with extra fuel and or wicks
Disposable plates, napkins, and cutlery
A map of your area
Household chlorine bleach
Games, small toys, and books to distract children
Before the threat of a hurricane it will be helpful to:
Develop and PRACTICE your family's emergency plan
Take Red Cross first aid and CPR classes
Know your evacuation route
Have arrangements for relocating with a friend or relative
Have lumber, hammer, and nails to board your windows
Arrange for the safekeeping of your pets, animals are not allowed in shelters
Make a complete inventory of your personal property
Trim or remove trees that could damage your home
Keep your vehicles filled with fuel
What to do when a watch is issued:
Monitor weather reports constantly
Check and ready your emergency supplies
Fill your vehicles with gas
Get a supply of cash
Anchor small boats or move them to a safe place
Remain calm
What to do when a warning is issued:
Monitor weather reports constantly
If you live in a mobile home, check tie-downs and leave immediately
Secure or bring outside items inside which can be blown away
Board or shutter windows securely
If you are in a low lying area or near beaches leave now
Shut off gas valves, main water valves, and main electrical switch
Load survival items in your vehicle
Be alert but stay calm
Listen for shelters and evacuation routes and drive carefully
Tropical Disturbance
No strong wind. Areas of showers and thunderstorms. Common
throughout the tropics.
Tropical Depression
Counterclockwise rotation of air at speeds of 38 mph or less. A clearly defined
low pressure area is emerging.
Tropical Storm
A low pressure system with wind speed of 39 - 73 mph,
the storm receives a name.
Tropical Storm Watch
An announcement for specific areas that tropical winds pose a
possible threat to coastal areas.
Tropical Storm Warning
A warning that tropical storm conditions, including sustained winds of
39 - 73 mph are expected in a specific coastal region within 24 hours.
Hurricane
Intense low pressure with winds rotating around the center in a counter
clockwise direction at speeds of 74 mph or more.
Hurricane Watch
An announcement for specific areas that hurricane conditions pose a threat
to a coastal area. When a hurricane watch is issued, all precautions
should be taken immediately.
Hurricane Warning
A warning that sustained winds of 74 mph or higher is expected in a specified
coastal area within 24 hours. If the hurricane's path is unusual or erratic,
the warning may be issued only a few hours before the beginning
of hurricane conditions.