Being prepared for a weather disaster

Hurricanes are defined as a storm with violent wind. For a storm to be classified as a hurricane, it has to have sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or more.

We want you and your family to stay safe, so we’re sharing some important tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Preparing for a hurricane

• Have a week’s supple of food and water at your home.
• Check all windows, glass doors and garage doors. Install protection if needed.
• If you live in an area prone to flooding, make sure to follow flood preparedness precautions.

What to do during a Hurricane watch

• Listen to the local and national weather station.
• Fill your car with gas.
• Bring in outdoor furniture or secure it.
• Close and board up windows and glass sliding doors.
• Refrigerator and freezers needed to be set on the coldest setting and only open them when necessary.
• Store valuables and important documents in upper levels of your home or a safe deposit box.
• Review evacuation plan with family.

What to do during a hurricane

• Evacuate if you are told to do so. Make sure to let family or friends know where you are going.
• Close all interior and exterior doors. Brace exterior doors if needed.
• Use flashlights and have extra batteries. Don’t use candles.
• Unplug major appliances if the power goes out to reduce the power surge.
• Be alert to flooding. Turn around, don’t drown.

More resources

• National Weather Service
• Getting your family prepared for a disaster
• Emergency preparedness for children with special health care needs
• Disaster information for people with chronic conditions and disabilities