Determine your location in ordinance with your flood zone. This is essential to be aware of if evacuation is necessary.
Make sure you know how to secure your home from the damage the hurricane may cause. These instructions come from this Hurricane Preparedness Guide:
- Cover all of your windows, either with hurricane shutters or wood.
- Tape is not recommended to cover windows. Even though it can prevent the glass from shattering everywhere, it does not prevent the window from breaking.
- If possible, secure straps or clips to securely fasten your roof to the structure of your home.
Make sure all trees and shrubs are trimmed. - Clear rain gutters.
- Reinforce your garage doors.
- Bring in all outdoor furniture, garbage cans, decorations, and anything else that isn’t tied down.
- If the wind speed picks up, stay away from your windows and doors. It is best to close, secure and brace the internal doors.
In the event of a power outage:
- Make sure your gas tank is full as soon as possible before the storm even approaches. Gas stations can run out early due to those last-minute fuel-ups for cars and generators.
- Have extra cash on hand just in case no ATMs in your area are working or accessible.
- Charge your cell phone and limit use after power is out. If possible, invest in a portable charger to help stretch the battery even more.
- If your A/C goes out, try to prevent as much light from entering and warming the house by covering up your windows from the inside. Don’t run back-up or battery-operated fans unless you are in the room.
- Fill the bathtub and large containers with water for washing and flushing only.
- Turn your fridge temperature down and/or freeze any food or drinking water that can be frozen. Have a cooler with ice packs prepared to cool your drinks and snacks after power has been out for more than 4 hours. Limit opening your fridge to keep the cold inside.
