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.