Hurricane Preparedness

What is a hurricane? A hurricane is a tropical cyclone that rotates counter-clockwise in the waters of the northern hemisphere. There are three classifications that indicate how a storm may progress.

• A tropical depression is a system of clouds with embedded thunderstorms; they have a circulation that is defined and the winds range from 38 mph or less.
• A tropical storm consists of strong thunderstorms with a circulation that is defined and the winds range from 39 to 73 mph.
• A hurricane consists of intense storms with a well defined eye of circulation with maximum sustained wind speeds of 74 mph or higher.

Hurricanes are rated in intensity by the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale and can be classified from 1 to 5, with 5 being the most destructive. The storms are formed by heat from the air, water temperature, and steering easterly trade winds.

Be Prepared: Advance preparation is the key to hurricane survival. Some of the main prevention strategies should include:

• developing a family plan
• creating a disaster supply kit
• having a place to go
• securing your home
• having a plan for your pets

Each of these will be discussed in detail to help prepare in advance.

Developing a Family Plan: You should know and discuss with family the types of hazards that could affect your family and home. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, floods, and winds. You should locate a safe room or the safest area in your home for protection. Determine your escape routes from your home and places to meet in case you need to evacuate. If possible, identify a family member or friend out of state to act as a family contact. Each family member will use the person identified as a single point of contact. Post emergency telephone numbers by telephones. Check insurance coverage and have all important papers in one place in case an evacuation is necessary. Once your family plan has been developed, write it down and share it with other family members and/or friends to ensure they are aware of your plans.

Creating a Disaster Supply Kit: It is important that you have a disaster supply kit to ensure you can take care, or be taken care of, during and after a storm. The kit should have some of the following items in it:

• Water - at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
• Food - at least enough for 3 to 7 days
• Non-perishable packaged or canned food/juices
• Snack foods
• Non-electric can opener
• Cooking tools/fuel
• Paper plates/plastic utensils
• Blankets/pillows, etc.
• Clothing - seasonal/rain gear/sturdy shoes
• First Aid Kit/Medicines/Prescription Drugs
• Special Needs Items
• Toiletries/Hygiene items/Moisture Wipes
• Flashlight/Batteries
• Radio - battery operated and NOAA weather radio
• Cash - small bills as well as large if needed. Banks and ATMs may be closed for some time after the storm.
• Keys
• Books/Games
• Important Documents - put in waterproof container or watertight re-sealable plastic bags. This can include insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, social security information, etc.
• Tools - keep a set with you during the storm
• Vehicle fuel tanks filled
• Pet Care Items:
• - Proper identification/immunization records/medications
• - Ample supply of food and water
• - A carrier or cage
• - Muzzle and leash

Securing Your Home: One of the most important precautions that can be taken to reduce damage to your home and property is to protect the areas where wind can enter and cause damage. The following five areas have been identified as important items to strengthen and protect your homes exterior: roof, straps, shutters, doors, and garage doors. When preparing for an impending storm, walk around the exterior of your home to ensure all smaller items that could become projectiles from high winds are secured. Have a Place to Go: The evacuation location should be part of your family plan. If you are ordered to evacuate, do not wait until the last minute to depart as roads will be heavily congested and many will close due to the weather. If possible, leave prior to officials informing you to do so. Select an evacuation destination that is near your home if at all possible. Try to keep your travel as short as possible while getting out of harms way. Keep in mind that hotels and other shelters will likely fill up very quickly. If possible, make arrangements to stay with a friend or relative who resides close to your home and does not have to evacuate. Make sure you make the arrangements prior to having to evacuate so there is not confusion. If you must go to a hotel/motel, make reservations as soon as possible, the longer you wait, the harder it will be to find a vacancy. If there is no other option, shelters are opened during hurricanes. Although they are not intended to provide comfort and will not usually accept pets, they will be available. Always make sure, if you find the need to evacuate, to fill your gas tank prior to leaving.

Planning for your Pets: Prior to a storm contact your veterinarian or local humane society for information on preparing your pets for an emergency, and remember they will feel the stress that we as humans feel.

• Make sure that your pets are current on their vaccinations. Pet shelters may require proof of vaccines.
• Have a current photograph of your pet
• Keep a collar with identification on your pet and have a leash on hand to control your pet.
• Have a properly-sized pet carrier for each animal – carriers should be large enough for the animal to stand and turn around.
• Plan your evacuation strategy and don’t forget your pet! Specialized pet shelters, animal control shelters, veterinary clinics and friends and relatives out of harm’s way are all potential refuges for your pet during a disaster.
• If you are planning to shelter your pet, make sure you work it into your evacuation route plan.

• Animals brought to a pet shelter are required to have the the following: proper ID collar and rabies tag, ID on all belongings, a carrier or cage, a leash, an ample supply of food, water, food bowls and any medications, specific care instructions, and newspapers or trash bags for clean up.
• Bring pets indoors well in advance of a storm – reassure them and remain calm.
• Pet shelters may be filled on a first come, first served basis, call ahead to determine availability.

• Walk pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home, often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could be easily confused and become lost.
If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring a picture of your pet if possible.
• Monitor your pets behavior as they can become aggressive or defensive after a disaster.
• Make sure your pet plan is included in your family disaster plan

Hurricane season starts June 1st and lasts until November 30th. By the start of the hurricane season you should:

• Assemble your disaster supply kit
• Write out your family disaster plan
• When a watch is issued you should check your supply kit
• Activate your family plan
• When a warning is issued you should ready your supply kit for use
• Use your disaster plan