Hurricane Preparedness Week kicks off on May 1. The week helps share vital information about assessing your risk for hurricanes and what to do to prepare. So, why are we talking about this in August?
Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, but most hurricanes land in the US in August or September. Natural disaster preparedness is always a good idea. Why? We can’t control when a storm happens, but we can control how we react when a storm strikes!
Before moving to Texas, I lived on the Gulf Coast for over a decade. In that time, I’ve been through my fair share of storms. Some can feel relatively mild, and some, like Hurricane Ivan, caused devastation that’s taken years to overcome.
AM I AT RISK?
There’s a myth that hurricanes are just a coastal problem. That’s wrong. Storms can travel inland for hundreds of miles, causing damage from wind and water along the way. It’s essential to be aware of your risk level and what you can do to prepare.
What types of wind and water hazards exist in your area? How will you handle them? Even low-strength storms can be harmful in areas not accustomed to getting hurricanes.
Having a plan and making an emergency kit can save a life. While people living in coastal towns may be hurricane season veterans, it is never a bad idea to refresh an emergency plan and kit.
Not sure where to start? SafeHome.org has an emergency prep guide to help you plan.
PREPARE AN EMERGENCY KIT
Having an emergency kit is always important when a hurricane is looming. Stock it with the following:
- One gallon of water per person per day (don’t forget about pets!)
- Enough non-perishable food for three days
- Pet supplies
- Blankets and sleeping bags
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Picnic supplies (can opener and cutlery)
- First Aid Kit
- Cell phones and chargers
- Wet Wipes and Hand Sanitizers
- Extra cash
- Extra clothing
In addition, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommends that you include:
- Any medicine or prescriptions you might need.
- A radio and batteries.
- Topping off your gas tank.
I can speak from first-hand experience – even after living on the Gulf Coast for a decade; gas lines could be miles long. Locals sometimes get bold and overestimate their readiness. Don’t get cocky!
CREATE AN EVACUATION PLAN
Disasters can make planning challenging. So, develop an evacuation plan covering the basics: who picks the kids up from school, where to meet, what to do if phones don’t work, map evacuation routes, pick multiple meetup locations, and who to contact in case your family is separated. Try to practice when you can!
Do you live in a hurricane evacuation zone? Is your area flood-prone? Or do you live in a mobile home? If yes, NOAA suggests having a plan to reach your evacuation zone. You don’t have to drive hundreds of miles. Your destination can be a friend, neighbor, or family member who lives in a sturdy home outside a flood-prone area.
PUT IT IN WRITING
The best time to prepare is before the season begins, but it’s never too late to start! After all, you don’t want a hurricane knocking at your door before deciding to act.
Write down your plan. Take the time to know where you’ll receive evacuation orders. Ahead of time, determine where you will stay during the storm. Have your supplies on hand now.
Everything you do can make a difference!