Hurricane
Hurricane season June 1 to November 30
Prepare for hurricane season
- Prepare an emergency supply kit.
- Clean out gutters and trim trees and shrubs.
- Inspect your roof, siding, foundation and basement to identify areas that need to be repaired or replaced.
- Create and practice an evacuation plan.
- Reinforce garage doors – if wind blows through the garage, it can cause serious structural damage to other parts of your home.
- Consider replacing gravel or rock landscaping materials with shredded bark, since high hurricane winds could cause rocks to move around and damage your home.
- Prepare a home inventory with photos of your home and personal property.
Before the storm
- Bring lawn furniture, trash cans and toys inside.
- Cover windows with 5/8-inch plywood that’s cut to fit and ready to install.
- Fill your gas tank, refill prescriptions and grab extra cash from ATMs.
- Park your car in a garage or next to a building to protect it from wind and flying debris.
- Charge your cellphone and other electronics.
- Fill sinks, tubs and other containers with water for cleaning and washing.
- If you live in a tall building, find shelter on the 10th floor or lower before the storm strikes.
During the storm
- Listen to the radio or TV for information, and turn off utilities if told to do so.
- Avoid using the phone, except for emergencies.
- Stay inside, unless you’re told to evacuate.
- Stay away from windows and exterior doors.
- Turn off utilities and propane tanks.
- Keep your emergency kit with you.
- If you’re told to evacuate, do so immediately.
After the storm
- Stay indoors until emergency personnel announce that the area is safe.
- Make sure your home is safe before returning.
- Text or use social media to let others know you’re okay.
- Be on alert for extended rainfall, subsequent flooding and downed power lines and tree limbs.
- Take photos of damage to your home, cars or other items.
- Dry and disinfect all materials in the house to prevent mold and mildew.
4 hurricane myths
Myth
Only coastal areas are at risk of hurricanes.
Fact
Strong winds, heavy rain and flooding can spread inland hundreds of miles.