Hurricane Prep: What You Need to Know

Published: August 01, 2024

Hurricane season can be a nerve-wracking time, but with the right preparation, you can stay safe and minimize damage. Being proactive and knowing what to do before, during, and after a hurricane can make a huge difference. By taking these steps now, you can ensure that you’re ready to handle whatever the storm brings.

1. Understand the Risk

Before you dive into preparations, it’s important to understand the risk for your area. Check your local weather service for hurricane forecasts and potential impact. Knowing the likelihood of a storm and its projected path will help you make informed decisions.

2. Create a Hurricane Plan

Having a well-thought-out plan is crucial. Start by determining where you and your family will go if you need to evacuate. This could be a friend’s house, a relative’s home, or a designated evacuation center. Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan.

Evacuation Routes:

Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and have a plan for how you will get to safety. If you have pets, make sure your plan includes pet-friendly shelters or arrangements for their care.

Communication Plan:

Establish a communication plan so that everyone in your family can stay in touch during and after the storm. Make sure you have a list of important phone numbers and a way to charge your phones, such as a portable charger.

3. Prepare an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is essential for any hurricane preparedness plan. Gather the following items and store them in a waterproof container:

• Water: At least one gallon per person per day for at least three days.
• Non-Perishable Food: Enough for at least three days, including canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruit.
• Manual Can Opener: For opening canned food.
• First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
• Flashlights and Batteries: Power outages are common during hurricanes, so a flashlight is a must.
• Portable Phone Charger: Keep your devices charged even if the power goes out.
• Personal Hygiene Items: Toiletries, hand sanitizer, and moist towelettes.
• Important Documents: Copies of identification, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof bag.
• Cash: In case ATMs are not working.

4. Secure Your Home

Taking steps to secure your home can prevent significant damage. Here’s what you can do:

• Install Storm Shutters: Protect windows and doors from flying debris. If you don’t have shutters, use plywood.
• Clear Gutters: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so that water can flow freely.
• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Remove any branches that could potentially fall on your house during strong winds.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, grills, and items that could become projectiles in high winds.

5. Stay Informed

During a hurricane, staying informed is key. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio with you to receive updates on the storm and any emergency alerts. Follow local news and weather reports for the latest information and instructions from authorities.

6. During the Hurricane

When the hurricane arrives, take the following precautions:

• Stay Indoors: Remain inside and away from windows and doors. Stay in a windowless interior room, closet, or hallway.
• Listen to Updates: Continue to monitor news and weather reports for updates and instructions from local officials.
• Avoid Using Electrical Appliances: To prevent electrical shocks, avoid using appliances during heavy rain or flooding.

7. After the Hurricane

Once the storm has passed, it’s important to take safety measures before you begin assessing the damage:

• Wait for Official Notices: Don’t venture outside until you receive an official “all clear” from authorities. There may be hazards such as downed power lines or unstable structures.
• Inspect Your Property: Carefully check your home for damage, but be cautious of any hazards like gas leaks or structural damage. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the area immediately and contact emergency services.
• Document Damage: Take photos of any damage to your property for insurance purposes. This can be helpful for claims.

8. Stay Prepared Year-Round

Finally, remember that hurricane preparedness is not just a one-time event. Keep your emergency kit updated and review your hurricane plan regularly. Stay informed about your area’s risk and adjust your preparations as needed.

Preparing for a hurricane may seem overwhelming, but with a bit of planning and organization, you can ensure that you and your family stay safe. By understanding the risks, creating a solid plan, and taking the necessary precautions, you’ll be ready to handle whatever the storm brings. Stay safe, and remember, preparation is the best way to stay calm and secure during hurricane season.

For more information and to find out how we can help, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Raleigh at (984) 202-8072.