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What to Do Before a Hurricane

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There are numerous procedures that can be done prior to a hurricane to lesson the possibilities of physical injury and property damage.

  1. Know the terms used by weather forecasters.
    • Hurricane Watch - A hurricane is possible within 36 hours. Stay tuned for additional advisories.
    • Hurricane Warning - A hurricane is expected within 24 hours. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
  2. Listen for local radio or television weather forecasts. Purchase a NOAA Weather Radio with a warning alarm tone and battery backup.
  3. Contact Broward County Emergency Management at 954-831-3900 about community evacuation plans and whether your neighborhood would be told to evacuate. Learn evacuation routes. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate.
  4. Talk to your family about hurricanes. Plan a place to meet your family in case you are separated from one another in a disaster. Choose an out-of-state contact for everyone to call to say they are okay.
  5. Determine the needs of family members who may live elsewhere but need your help in a hurricane. Consider the special needs of neighbors.
  6. Prepare to survive on your own for at least three days. Assemble a disaster supplies kit. Include a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, blankets, clothing and food and water.
  7. Make plans to protect your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8″ marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
  8. Know how to shut off utilities. Know where gas pilots are located and how the heating and air conditioning system works.
  9. Have your home inspected for compliance with local building codes. Many of the roofs destroyed by hurricanes were destroyed because they were not constructed according to building codes.
  10. Consider flood insurance. Purchase insurance well in advance. There is normally a five day waiting period before flood insurance takes effect.
  11. Make a record of your personal property. Take photographs of or videotape your belongings.