Hurricane Preparedness: When a Hurricane or Tropical Storm is Approaching

You’re directly in the path of a tropical storm or hurricane. What should you do to prepare before the storm strikes? Let’s look:

• Cover windows with proper materials such as plywood, steel, or aluminum panels. In case debris is flying, you’ll want your windows protected from smashing.
• Trim nearby trees to limit damage to your home from flying debris in the storm.
• Secure outdoor furniture and decorations to avoid flying furniture when the winds pick up. Not only can flying furniture and lawn ornaments be a danger, but you can save the money of replacing these items by stashing them in a safe spot from the wind before the storm arrives.
• Lock doors so the strong winds have a lower chance of pushing into your home.
• Move your vehicle to a safe location. If your vehicle is parked outside, not only could it be damaged by flying items, but the vehicle itself could be pushed by the wind or damaged by floodwaters.
• Determine if you live in an evacuation zone. After prepping your home, if you live in an evacuation zone, the best advice is to listen to the warnings and leave. Besides the weather putting your life in jeopardy, help may not be available if you do not evacuate.
• Have a bag of supplies including food, water, and clothes in case of an emergency and for your possible lengthy evacuation route.
• Plan for your pets before the storm. Either have the pets come with you or find a safe storm shelter for them before harsh weather strikes.

These are a few of the steps you can take as a tropical storm or hurricane approaches to keep you and your home safe. Now is the time to start thinking about preparedness plans ahead of dangerous tropical weather before the hurricane season arrives.

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Story source: weather.gov

Story Image: Hurricane evacuation routes are posted in many coastal locations in case you have to leave the area as a tropical storm or hurricane approaches (pixabay.com).