HURRICANE SAFETY

What is a Hurricane?

Hurricanes are massive storm systems that form over warm ocean waters and move toward land. The Atlantic hurricane season is from June 1 to Nov 30. The Pacific hurricane season is May 15 to Nov 30.

They're categorized according to their wind strength using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. Category 5 is the strongest. These are the 5 deadliest hurricanes in the contiguous US.

What to Do Before a Hurricane

Plan in advance. Create your disaster plan.

Protect your home. Get plywood boards for each window of your home.

Safeguard your surroundings. Make trees more wind resistant by removing diseased and damaged limbs.

Download FEMA's App

Receive real-time alerts
Learn safety tips
Locate shelters

When a Hurricane WATCH or WARNING is Issued

Prep for watches. A watch means hurricane conditions are possible, usually within 36 hours. Prepare to bring inside anything that can be picked up by the wind. Fill your car's gas tank and charge your cell phone. Complete your disaster supply kit.

Prep for warnings. A warning means hurricane conditions are expected, usually within 24 hours. Get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions every 30 minutes. Bring inside anything that can be picked up by the wind. Cover all windows. Listen to local officials, and leave if they tell you to.

What to Do During a Hurricane

Find adequate shelter. If sheltering during high winds, go to a small, interior, windowless room or hallway on the lowest floor that is not subject to flooding. If trapped in a building by flooding, go to the highest level of the building. Do not climb into a closed attic. You could become trapped.

Travel safely. Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters. Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.

What to Do After a Hurricane

Check for injuries. Administer aid if necessary.

Get status updates. Check media outlets for instructions. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family.

Be aware of new safety issues. Be aware of washed out roads, snakes, and damaged electrical wiring.

Inspect damages. Inspect your home for damage. Contact your insurance agent about claims. Discard food and supplies that are contaminated.

Don't be caught unprepared!

Looking for a more comprehensive list of hurricane safety tips? Download the Ready.gov Hurricane Information Sheet.

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