Hurricane Checklist for Communities

Hurricane season comes around annually, and virtually every year, it affects some part of the United States. It is vital for people and businesses in these areas to prepare adequately for these devastating storms. Having a simple plan in place can make all the difference in the safety of your family members or employees. Before the next hurricane comes, make sure you create a checklist with all the following points.

Checklist for Preparing Your Home

If you reside in an area that experiences hurricanes, then it is vital to create a severe weather safety family plan. This needs to include an area where everyone agrees to meet in case people are separated when the storm draws near.

Homeowners should also have an emergency kit, consisting of food, water, medication, and cash, in case there is a need for an immediate evacuation. Valuables should be protected in flood-proof areas of the house. You should also scan and store all pertinent documents, such as tax statements, social security cards and drivers’ licenses as computer files. Install shutters or board up windows and doors to prevent glass from breaking.

Checklist If You Will Be Going to a Shelter

There isn’t a lot of space for each person at a shelter. Therefore, it is important to only bring essentials.

• One gallon of water for each person in your party
• Nonperishable food
• Medications
• Extra clothing
• Toilet paper
• Important documents, such as ID
• Phone charger
• Towels
• Bedding

If your family has a pet, check beforehand to ensure the shelter can take it. Most shelters will accept a service animal, but only some take regular pets. People who bring pets need to ensure they always wear a collar containing contact information in case of separation. You also need vaccination records, extra water, and food for the furry companion.

Checklist If You Will Be Driving Out of the Area

Several weeks before a hurricane, it is important to get your vehicle inspected by a professional. With such a potentially long journey, you do not want to risk your car breaking down on the side of the road. You will want plenty of food and water inside the vehicle for the trip, but you also want the following.

• Gas canister
• Jumper cables
• Road flares
• Antifreeze
• First aid kit
• Duct tape
• Important phone numbers

In the event your family has more than one vehicle, keep the other safe. Lock it up in a garage, or find a parking structure in your area where you can keep it for the time being.

Checklist Before Returning Home

If you are out of state during a hurricane, then you want to remain up-to-date with storm tracking software and local authorities. Once it is clear the hurricane is no longer a threat, you can prepare to return home. Before leaving the temporary residence, it is important to take out plenty of cash because stores may not be able to accept credit cards for a while. You also want to have plenty of water and food in case the destruction spoiled everything. You should also contact a medical facility in your area to make sure they are back up and running before heading home. When you return to your house, you should check it out first before allowing any children inside. Make sure the house is not flooded or contains any pests.

Hurricanes are powerful forces of nature, so it is prudent to develop a plan going forward. Part of that plan can involve utilizing services like real time lighting data provided by Earth Networks. We offer a wide range of services to help businesses and organizations remain prepared for extreme weather conditions. Contact us if you are interested in learning more about what we can do for your business.