Hurricane Preparedness

 

Hurricane Procedures and Tips

• If you plan to leave the area in the event of a hurricane, do so before major traffic corridors are filled.  A ‘hurricane watch’ is issued prior to a ‘hurricane warning’. Shortly thereafter, ‘voluntary evacuation’ notices may be issued by government officials, followed by ‘mandatory evacuation’ notices. Consider leaving when a ‘warning’ or ‘watch’ is issued.
• Make sure you have plenty of cash before a storm. Many stores may be without electricity following the storm and you may not be able to use debit or credit cards. ATM’s may not work or may be out of money.
• If you require special medical assistance, be sure arrangements have been made with medical professionals to service your needs.
• Medications, baby diapers, formulas, and personal hygiene supplies may be limited after a storm.  It is recommended to have a 3 weeks supply on hand.
• Know where ahead of time you will go in case you are told to evacuate. Choose more than one location. Make sure you notify family and friends where you are going and how they can contact you.
• Make sure you have an alternate route to your evacuation location. Major roads may be jammed with traffic or rerouted. Take a map!
• There are six basic items you should stock in your home. Water, Food, First Aid Supplies, clothing and bedding, tools, and emergency supplies. that you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy to carry container, such as plastic or vinyl container with a lid, a backpack, or a duffel bag. For a detailed listing of items to put in your kit, go to the Federal Emergency Management Agency website at www.fema.gov 
• For evacuation purposes, have important family documents ready to take with you. Insurance policies, wills, immunization records, bank account numbers, written and video inventory of valuable household goods, family records (birth, marriage, death certificates), and photos.
• If a hurricane threatens OIB Beach, visit www.oceanislebeach.com often and stay tuned to local media for evacuation instructions.
• Turn up refrigerator to maximum cold and don't open unless necessary
• Be sure that cell phones are fully charged
• Stay indoors on the downwind side of house away from windows
• Beware of the eye of the hurricane
• Leave areas which might be affected by storm tide or stream flooding
• Leave early - in daylight if possible
• Take small valuables and papers but travel light
• Lock up house
• Drive carefully to nearest designated shelter using recommended evacuation routes
• Avoid elevators
• Turn off the breaker to your water heater in the event that the water is cut off.

 

If officials indicate evacuation is necessary . . .

• Leave as soon as possible.
• Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed out bridges.
• Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.
• Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going.
• If time permits, elevate furniture to protect it from flooding.
• Bring pre-assembled emergency supplies and warm protective clothing.
• Take blankets and sleeping bags to the shelter.
• Lock up house and leave.

 

If at home.....

• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles and cooking utensils.
• Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
• If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power "surge" when electricity is restored.
• Fill bath tubs with water that will not be used for drinking.
• After the storm, stay away from downed power lines and ponding water. Wait until an area is declared safe before entering. Do not drive into flooded areas. Do not "sight-see". Do not drink or prepare food with tap water until you know for certain it is not contaminated. Avoid using candles or other open flames indoors. Use flashlights and battery operated lanterns. When you return home, be prepared for the worst. If things aren't too bad, your spirits will be lifted. Keeping a good outlook on things is very important.