BEFORE A SEVERE STORMAssemble a 72-Hour Survival Kit and Check your House:
First-Aid kit
Battery-powered radio, extra batteries
Flashlight, extra batteries
Bottled water
Sleeping bags, blankets
Emergency canned/instant foods and juices
Can opener, utility knife
Paper plates, cups
Preparedness manuals
Plastic utensils
Prescription medicine
Large and small plastic trash bags
Improvised toilet, extra bags
Disinfectant
Soap
Diapers
Feminine hygiene needs
Fire extinguisher, ABC type
Extra clothing, shoes
Entertainment - books, games, etc.
House check-list
If an evacuation is ordered, leave immediately.
Check often for official bulletins. Fuel car, park in a safe place.
Bring in pets.
Secure lawn furniture and other loose materials outdoors.
Move valuables to upper floors.
Board or shutter windows.
Wedge sliding glass doors.
Locate insurance and medical records.
Locate electrical, water, and gas cutoffs.
DURING A SEVERE STORM
Stay away from windows. Put as many walls and doors between you and the outside as possible.
Use flashlights, not candles.
Stay inside until the "all-clear" is announced.
Should the eye of the hurricane pass over, the weather will temporarily calm. Remain in a safe location.
Turn off the power if flooding begins.
AFTER A SEVERE STORM
Drive carefully. Watch for downed power lines, trees, debris and washed-out areas.
Medical care should be available at hospital emergency rooms, fire stations, or walk-in clinics.
Check for leaking gas lines by smell only. If a line is leaking, open windows, turn off the main meter and leave the house. Notify the gas company or police.
Do not drink tap water until it has been declared safe.
Stay tuned to radio and TV for advice and instructions.
Make certain food and water supplies have not spoiled because of flooding or a loss of electricity.
Watch out for snakes, insects or other animals that may have been driven to higher ground.
