If you decide to not evacuate, make sure you are prepared to ride out the storm. Stay off the streets and either stay at home or move to a designated shelter. STAY AWAY from windows and doors. Even lower category storms can toss debris around that could break through a window glass. STAY INDOORS until the storm is over. Do not use your generator until after the storm has passed. Even minor hurricanes can produce torrential rainfall, high wind and tornadoes when they make landfall. Once on land these storms can travel for hundreds of miles. Stay in tune with your local radio station and be aware of changing conditions for the possibility of flooding and tornadoes.
Secure your pets before the storm approaches. Pets can become panicked during the storm, so a small interior room with a blanket can comfort them. If you have a pet carrier, make sure you secure the carrier in a safe place, give your pet a blanket or familiar toy inside the carrier to help keep them calm. Make sure they have fresh water available. When the calm “eye” of the storm passes, it may seem like the storm is over, but after the eye passes, the winds will change direction and quickly return to hurricane force again. Stay tuned to local radio for information. Heavy rainfall and flooding can still occur even after the hurricane has passed. Use the telephone only in case of emergency.
During a major hurricane, emergency responders, law enforcement and fire personnel may not be available until after the storm passes.
- Phone lines may not be working, or the storm is too dangerous to risk emergency responders going out during the height of the storm.
- Always listen to evacuation information and evacuate as directed, there may be no one around to help once the storm arrives.
- Have your emergency kit ready at all times.
- Always use a flashlight or battery operated lanterns during the storm if the power is out.
- If flooding is occurring, get to higher ground or a second level of your home, but make sure you have an escape route.
- Do NOT use any electrical appliances, outlets, switches, etc. if flooding is occurring.
- Only return home when emergency officials have deemed it safe to return and roads are passable.
- When returning to a storm damage area, make sure you have the necessary documents to prove you own a home, property or business in that area, or the authorities may not let you through.
