Hurricane Information

Before the Hurricane Season

Make your hurricane plan with your household:

Create a Hurricane Kit - include water, food, valuable documents, cash, bedding, first aid kit, first aid manual and things you will need for self-sufficiency.
It is highly RECOMMENDED that residents have 7 days of supplies available. The national standard is actually 72 hours but as we saw in the aftermath of hurricane Wilma, we actually need more than that.
Make an inventory of possessions - Take pictures of each room; in case of damage, pictures will help you identify what is lost. Make an additional copy to give to your insurance claims adjuster.
Assess the status of your storm preparations. Know where you'll go if you evacuate.
Figure Out Arrangements for Pets - they're not permitted in evacuation shelters.

Begin listening for storm updates
Fill the car's gas tank and keep it topped off
Review your preparedness plan with your household
Establish out-of-town phone number with family/friends to relay messages on after storm whereabouts
Refill pending prescriptions
Fill out supply of canned foods, soft drinks and water
In a rugged, waterproof container, collect medical and property insurance papers, immunization records and medical records of anyone with special needs. Include a few cherished mementos
Secure boats on trailers or move them to safe harbor
Determine your ''safe room'' or a room that is away from windows and has walls close together
Put shutters, window protection in place if instructed by local officials
Do not trim branches or limbs from trees
Locate the turnoff valves for electricity, water and gas

Fill bathtubs and jugs with water. Figure on using a gallon of water per person per day (don't forget pets)
Turn refrigerator and freezer settings to the coldest levels
Freeze water in plastic containers
Bring in any outdoor objects that could become projectiles in high winds
Remove external antennas
Remove valuable pictures and bric-a-brac from walls
Wedge sliding glass doors with a bar
Draw drapes and blinds
Turn off electricity to the pool and cover the pump equipment with waterproof material
Remove and store child safety fences
Gather your hurricane kit and stay in your safer room - essentials for the room include your hurricane kit, sturdy shoes, something to cover your head such as a pillow or mattress and a fire extinguisher