Hurricane Preparedness Guide 2023
Your complete checklist to help you plan and prepare for this hurricane season.
5 WAYS TO PREPARE FOR A HURRICANE
- Keep an emergency phone number list in a waterproof bag somewhere safe.
- Have an emergency supply kit.
- Do not stay if you're in an evacuation zone. Plan to stay at a family or friend's home instead. If this is not possible, take refuge in a designated shelter.
- Do not leave your pet behind. Learn which shelters and hotels are pet-friendly or speak to your vet about where you can safely board them.
- Sign up for local weather alerts.
PACKING FOR HURRICANE SHELTERS
Space and privacy are very limited at shelters and only basic necessities are supplied. Below is a list of what you'll need:
- Bedding
- Towels
- Childcare items such as formula, diapers, wipes, toys, etc.
- Toothbrush/paste and other personal hygiene items
- Medications and prescriptions
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable snacks
- Extra clothes
- Power banks, fully charged
- Charging cords
- Earbuds
- Special items for elderly or disabled
- Family members
HOW TO PREPARE FOR A HURRICANE
18-36 HOURS BEFORE THE STORM
- Clear your yard of possible projectiles (patio furniture, garbage cans)
- Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on the building
- Put up shutters or board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine plywood
- Take photos of your home, both inside and outside
- Fill clean water containers with drinking water
- Fill up sinks and bathtubs with water for washing
- Get cash
- Fill up your vehicle with gas
6 hours before the storm
- Let family know where you are (home, shelter, out of town)
- Close storm shutters
- Turn your refrigerator/freezer to the coldest setting
- Be sure electronics are charged
During the storm
- Never use a generator indoors
- Stay in an interior, windowless room on the lowest floor
- Do not climb into the attic, you may get trapped by rising water
- Do not go outside, even if it looks calm
- Wait for authorities to say it's ok
After the storm
- Use flashlights instead of candles whenever possible
- Never use a generator, gas grill or camp stove inside your home or garage
- Keep gas and coal-powered equipment outside and at least 20 feet from any window, door, or vent
- Drink safe water (bottled or boiled, if you have electricity)