When a Warning Is Issued

When a hurricane warning is issued you should:

  • Continue listening to radio or television: continue to monitor hurricane position, intensity and expected landfall
  • If you live in a mobile home, check tie-downs and leave immediately for a safer place; mobile homes are not safe in hurricane-force winds
  • Prepare for high winds: brace your garage door, lower antennas be prepared to make repairs
  • Anchor outside objects: garbage cans, awnings, loose garden tools, toys and other loose objects can become deadly missiles; anchor them securely or move them indoors
  • Protect windows and other glass:
    • Board up or shutter windows securely
    • Draw drapes across windows and doors to protect against flying glass if shattering does occur
    • Do not tape windows; it increases the chances for larger, more dangerous pieces of flying glass
  • Move boats on trailers close to house
  • Fill boats with water to weight them down and lash securely to trailer and use tie-downs to anchor trailer to the ground or house
  • Check mooring lines of boats in water, and then leave them
  • Store valuables and personal papers: put irreplaceable documents in waterproof containers and store in highest possible spot; if you evacuate, be sure to take them with you.
  • Store drinking water in clean containers
  • Plan a flood-free evacuation route, and know where to go
  • If ordered to evacuate, obey immediately! Take your Hurricane Evacuation Kit and let friends and neighbors know where you are going
  • Do not enter evacuated areas until local officials have issued an all-clear

Hurricane Evacuation Kit

In the event of an emergency, you should keep your hurricane evacuation kit ready to go within hours. Some suggested items to keep on hand:

  • 2-week supply of medicine
  • Battery-operated flashlight
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • Extra clothing
  • First aid kit
  • Important papers (valid ID)
  • Infant necessities
  • Lightweight folding chairs/cots
  • Personal items including books and toys

Remember

Remember, there is no smoking, alcoholic beverages, weapons or pets allowed in public shelters.