You need to formulate a plan for before, during, and after a hurricane. Make sure that you review your plan with your family.

Before the Hurricane

• Purchase all the food and water you will need to ride out a storm. Have it stored and ready for an emergency.
• Make sure you have all other supplies and tools you may need.
• Make sure you have enough supplies for your baby or child.
• Make sure you have all the supplies and food you will need for a pet. Also, make prior arrangements to board your pet with a kennel, friend, or family member in case you have to evacuate to an emergency shelter. They will not accept pets.
• Prepare your home. Make it storm proof.
• Have an evacuation plan. Know to where you will evacuate if you must, and make prior arrangement, i.e., registering with the evacuation site.
• Fill up your car with gas. Acquiring fuel after a hurricane may be difficult.
• Make sure you have enough cash to get you through a few days. Accessing your money at the bank may be difficult after a hurricane.
• Have a first aid kit.
• Have emergency lighting: flashlights (extra batteries).
• Turn refrigerators and freezers to highest settings.
• Call family or friends and let them know what your plans are.
• Cover windows with storm shutters or plywood.
• Make sure your battery operated radio works (extra batteries).

During the Hurricane

• If you are staying at your home, take shelter in a room or closet located in the center of your home.
• Stay away from windows and exterior doors.
• Stay calm; storms can take several hours to pass.
• Monitor the storm via battery operated radio.

After the Hurricane

• Assess your situation. Check for damage around your house.
• If there are downed power lines, do not go near them.
• Stay on firm ground, and avoid flooded areas. Flooded areas can have hidden dangers, including charged power lines. Also, moving water can knock you off your feet.
• Drive only if you must.
• Do not drive into flooded areas.
• Call to report emergencies.
• Beware of animals, snakes, and insects that have sought shelter on higher and drier ground.
• If you evacuated your home, be very cautious when returning.
• Do not use tap water until you are certain it is not contaminated.
• Monitor the news to receive any pertinent public information.