Hurricanes are like no other storm on earth. These tempests of dangerous ferocity, natural strength and power, have an intensity that cannot be mirrored or contained and command respect, if not fear from those who are forced to face these beasts of nature. Hurricanes can be the stuff nightmares are made of.
Hurricanes, though alarming, can be prepared for. With the continued advancement of technology and the progression of science, there is a way to prepare for hurricanes through training, groundwork, education and forming an emergency action plan. Hurricane disasters, while they cannot be completely avoided, can be planned for and many tragedies can be evaded.
The ability to plan ahead for hurricanes has drastically improved. National weather services, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Tropical Prediction Center have combined forces to offer better warning systems. Forming unions with state, local, rescue organizations, the media and the private division, these weather reporting giants can offer families in hurricane regions better up-to-date warnings, advice and steps that can be taken to protect and safeguard family members.
Those who are at the highest risk for severe hurricane damage are those who occupy the barrier islands and the immediate coastline. Over time, the hurricane warning systems have attempted to give more time to those inhabiting high risk hurricane vicinities, to move inland when there is the threat of a hurricane. Yet, as these specific areas become more populated, evacuation plans are being re-examined in order to evacuate people as needed. It is important for you to form your own, individual family disaster plan. Do not become complacent or underestimate the strength and potential for destruction these power storms are capable of. Here are some helpful tips on planning for a hurricane.
• Form your own family disaster plan. Do some research on your specific risk for a hurricane. This can be easily accomplished by phoning your local emergency management office, or the National Weather Service.
• Make an appointment to talk with your insurance agency. Most policies do not cover flooding caused by hurricanes. If you do live in a risk zone prone to hurricanes, this is a plan you will want to add to your policy. If you rent, make the same inquiry and check into renters insurance.
• Check with the American Red Cross and find out where evacuation routes are, shelters that may be nearby, and what conditions actually warrant an evacuation. Be open and honest with children. Preparing them for a moment that could be very frightening will help children be more prepared and brave if a hurricane should strike your area.
• Having a sit-down family discussion with your family about hurricanes is vital to having a prepared plan for disaster. Knowing what to do ahead of time will save panic, anxiety and help everyone get a better understanding of how to properly respond.
• Prepare a supply kit that will specifically be for a hurricane disaster. Contact your local Red Cross department to get a better list of what items will be the most beneficial for your evacuation or emergency.
• Form a list that will document better ways to protect your home and property. The list should include items to bring into your home in case of a hurricane. Additionally, keep all hedges, trees and shrubs trimmed. Flying debris can cause serious damage to you or your home. You will want to make sure you have permanent hurricane windows, increase the strength of your garage doors, elevate coastal homes, and add flood precautions. Hurricanes have been known to release more than ten inches of rain in less than two hours!
• Pack an emergency bag in case of an evacuation. This bag should include: a first aid kit, toiletries, batteries and battery powered radios, flashlights, blankets and sleeping bags, identification, and a waterproof, fireproof box containing important documents like insurance, passports, birth certificates and other significant records.
Hurricanes can be frightening, but you can prepare for them. Follow these instructions and continue to educate yourself on hurricanes and hurricane emergency policies. There are many resources available in hurricane danger zones that can offer advice and information that will help ease your mind and protect your family.