The Family Plan should be based on your vulnerability to Hurricane hazards that could affect your family such as storm surge or flooding. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a hurricane disaster.
Every home should have a Disaster Supply Kit which would contain certain items you need to have regardless of where you ride out a hurricane.
Securing your home should also be a top priority. There are things that you can do to make your home more secure and able to withstand stronger storms.
Preventing the loss of life and minimizing the damage to property from hurricanes are responsibilities that are shared by all.
Family Disaster Plan.
Locate a safe room or the safest area in your home for each hurricane hazard; Determine escape routes from your home as certain areas could be inundated by flooding and storm surge in low lying areas; Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate; Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call; Check your insurance coverage; Stock non-perishable emergency supplies and a Disaster Supply Kit.
Disaster Supply Kit.
Water, at least one gallon daily per person for three to seven days; Food, at least enough for three to seven days, non-perishable packaged or canned/juices, foods for infants or the elderly, snack foods, non-electric opener, cooking tools/fuel, paper plates/plastic utensils; Blankets/Pillows; Clothing (rain coat, sturdy shoes); First Aid Kit/Medicines/Prescription Drugs; Special items for babies and the elderly; Toiletries/Hygiene items/Moisture wipes; Flashlight and batteries; Battery operated radio; Fully charged cell phone with an extra battery; Cash/Credit Cards; Toys/Books/Games; Important documents should be put in a waterproof container; Tools; Vehicle fuel tanks should be filled a few days before a hurricane strike; Pet care items (medication, ample supply of food and water, a carrier or cage, a muzzle and leash).
Securing Your Home.
The most important precaution you can take to reduce damage to your home and property is to protect the areas where wind can enter. It is important to strengthen the exterior of your house so wind and debris do not tear large openings in it. You can do this by protecting and reinforcing these five critical areas: roof, straps, shutters, doors and garage doors.
Be sure to ask other family members, friends and neighbors if they are hurricane aware, be prepared and ready.
The 2009 hurricane season officially starts on June 1 through November 30.