What Should I Do If There Is A Hurricane?

The best way to protect yourself and your family from the effects of a hurricane is to be prepared.

Before the Storm:

• Plan and practice evacuation routes. Your community may have a designated route, contact the local emergency management agency for details.
• Assemble a disaster supply kit (see below, or click on Family Preparedness Guide in 'Links to Related websites').
• Protect your windows.
• Develop an emergency communication plan. If family members get separated during a disaster it is helpful to have a friend or relative, outside the impacted area, who can be contacted and told everyone is ok.

During a Watch:

• Listen to radio WBZ 1030 am radio and television for hurricane reports.
• Check emergency supplies.
• Fuel car.
• Bring in objects such as toys or patio furniture. Anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
• Secure windows with shutters, boards or tape.
• Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles, etc.
• Review evacuation plan.

During a Warning:

• Listen constantly to radio or television for updates and instructions.
• If in a mobile home, evacuate immediately.
• Store valuables in waterproof containers on high levels to avoid water damage from flooding.
• Elevate furniture to protect it from water damage.
• Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
• Bring pre-assembled emergency supply kit and warm protective clothing.
• Lock up home and leave.

After the Storm:

• Stay tuned to local radio and television stations for information on returning to your home.
• Help injured or trapped people.
• Avoid loose or dangling power lines. Report them immediately to utility companies police or fire departments.
• Beware of animals, insects and snakes that may have entered your home.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
• Check refrigerated foods for spoilage.
• Take pictures of the house and damaged goods for insurance claims.
• Drive only if necessary, rescue and maintenance crews need to be able to travel freely.
• Use the telephone only for emergency calls.

Disaster Kit

• Foods (canned goods and nonperishable foods) that do not need cooking.
• Utensils, such as, a manual can opener, disposable plates, cups, forks, knives, spoons, etc.
• Drinking water in non-breakable containers (1 gallon per person/day).
• Special dietary food if required.
• Identification, valuable papers, policies and photographs in a waterproof container.
• Personal hygiene items, such as soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, washcloth, towels, sanitary items.
• First aid kit
• Medications, prescriptions and over the counter, such as aspirin and antacid.
• Specific medical information.
• Personal aids, such as, eyeglasses, hearing aids, canes, etc.
• Infant care items, such as diapers, and formula.
• Books, magazines, toys.
• Battery-operated radio.
• Flashlight.
• Extra batteries.
• Matches.
• Portable outdoor camping stove or grill with fuel supply.
• Sleeping bag or blanket, sheet and pillow.
• Change of clothing.
• Rainwear.
• Toolkit.
• Container for your disaster supply kit; should be waterproof.