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![]() Fact Sheet: Hurricanes Hurricanes can be dangerous killers. Learning the hurricane warning messages and planning ahead can reduce the chances of injury or major property damage. BEFORE Learn safe routes inland. Have disaster supplies on hand.
Make arrangements for pets. Pets may not be allowed into emergency shelters for health and space reasons. Contact your local humane society for information on local animal shelters. Make sure that all family members know how to respond after a hurricane. Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, or fire department and which radio station to tune to for emergency information. Protect your windows. Trim back dead or weak branches from trees. Check into flood insurance. You can find out about the National Flood
Insurance Program through your local insurance agent or emergency management
office. Develop an emergency communication plan. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person. Hurricane Watches and Warnings A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours. A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions (winds of 74 miles per hour or greater, or dangerously high water and rough seas) are expected in 24 hours or less. DURING A HURRICANE WATCH
DURING A HURRICANE WARNING
If at home:
If officials indicate evacuation is necessary:
AFTER
Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to do so.
Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out
bridges. INSPECTING UTILITIES IN A DAMAGED HOME Look for electrical system damage--If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice. Check for sewage and water lines damage--If you suspect sewage lines are damaged avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid the water from the tap. You can obtain safe water by melting ice cubes. Mitigation includes any activities that prevent an emergency, reduce the chance of an emergency happening, or lessen the damaging effects of unavoidable emergencies. Investing in preventive mitigation steps now such as strengthening unreinforced masonry to withstand wind and flooding and installing shutters on every window will help reduce the impact of hurricanes in the future. For more information on mitigation, contact your local emergency management office.
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Last Updated: Friday, 22-Oct-2004 21:19:00 EDT |
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