--- advertisement ---

 
 
 
 
 
 
Hurricane Center
 
CEMA Citizens Hurricane Academy 
 



Time to evacuate
 
Sunday, May 27, 2007 - 07:26 PM Updated: 10:35 PM
 
Article Tools

Before you evacuate:

If you have to evacuate due to a hurricane, you’ll need to make some other arrangements.

-          Fill your gas tank within 24-hours after a hurricane watch is issued.
-          Prepare emergency kit for your car complete with a first aid kit, food, water, booster cables, fire extinguisher and maps.
-          Turn off your gas, electricity and water before leaving.
-          Secure any outside items, such as grills, lawn furniture.
-          Make arrangements for pets, since most shelters won’t accept them.
-          Cover windows and doors with plywood or boards.
Evacuation:
 
You should plan now where to evacuate your family. Make arrangements to stay with friends or relative who live in a hurricane-safe zone. Have food, water and other must-have supplies. If you evacuate to an inland hotel, ask about special hurricane policies. Most importantly, make sure your evacuation destination is NOT in an evacuation zone.
 
Leaving home:
 
Leave as early as possible. Have an alternate route planned. If flying, prepare for airport closings and/or canceled flights. Storms can change direction quickly and without warning so be careful and avoid driving directly into a storm’s new path. Stay informed on traffic conditions.
 
Public Shelters:
 
An evacuation shelter should be your last resort. Keep in mind, different shelters may open at different times, depending on size and intensity of a storm. Do not go until an official announces a specific shelter has opened. Expect shelters to be crowded and uncomfortable. Be sure to bring the following things:
  • Pillows and blankets or sleeping bag
  • Special dietary foods, water and prescription medications
  • A change of clothes and personal hygiene items
  • Flashlights, radio and extra batteries
  • Infant necessities and quiet toys for children
  • Important papers
Note: Most shelters do not allow pets.
 
If you must evacuate:
 
Do not panic if an evacuation order is given. Make sure you give yourself enough time to leave before the weather turns bad. DO NOT take chances with your life:
  • Take your must-have supplies and important papers, including your driver’s license and insurance policies.
  • Take irreplaceable items such as photos or keepsakes.
  • Let friends and relatives know where you are going.
  • Turn off your electricity, water and gas if officials tell you to do so.
  • Lock windows and doors.
If you do not evacuate:
 
Make sure windows are protected and your home is secured. Clean containers for drinking water and your bathtub for storing clean water. Plan on three gallons of water per person per day for all uses. Offer your home to friends or relatives who need to evacuate. Have at least a two-week supply of nonperishable foods, including a non-electric can opener and corded non-electric phone.
 
As the storm approaches:
 
Remember: Hurricanes can be very unpredictable. Don’t focus on the exact point of forecasted track. Stay tuned to News 3 for crucial weather updates.
  • If there is a chance flooding could threaten your home, move important items, such as electronics, off the floor.
  • Fill your car’s gas tank and check oil, water and tires.
  • Get cash. Banks and ATMs won’t be in operation without electricity.
  • Check your must-have supplies kit. Obtain any needed items, especially water and food.
  • Refill prescriptions. Maintain at least a two-week supply during hurricane season.
  • Clear your yard of lawn furniture, potted plants, bicycles, trash cans and other potential projectiles.
  • Leave the swimming pool filled and super-chlorinated. Cover the filtration system.
  • Protect your windows and glass doors with plywood or storm shutters. Brace double entry and garage doors at the top and bottom.