Tips on what to do during a hurricane

DURING THE STORM

By the time the storm makes landfall it is far too late to change your mind and try to flee to a safer location. You must have everything you need by this point and be prepared to ride out the storm.

Once the storm hits, you must:

- Listen to the radio, or TV if you still have power, and check for updates
- Stay away from all windows - huddle in a hallway or the bathroom
- If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker
- If you lose power, turn off major appliances - such as the air conditioner or water heater - to reduce damage
- Do not use electrical appliances, including your computer
- Do not go outside - when the eye of the storm passes over your area, there will be a short period of calm, but the eye will pass and the wind will increase and will come from the opposite direction. Do not go outside to see "what the wind feels like" - you will have a good chance of being struck by flying debris
- Stay away from electrical equipment - don't use your phone, take a bath or shower during the storm.

Once the storm passes

More deaths actually occur after a hurricane than during. These deaths come from people being curious about the extent of the damage, and then coming into contact with downed power lines or unstable trees, etc.

These tips will help you to remain safe in the aftermath of a storm:

- Remain indoors until an official "all clear" is given
- Do not touch fallen or low-hanging wires of any kind under any circumstances. Stay away from puddles with wires in/near them. Do not touch trees or other objects in contact with power lines.
- Use phones for emergencies only. Call 9-1-1 only for life-threatening situations.
- Call police or utility companies immediately to report hazards such as downed power lines, broken gas or water mains, overturned gas tanks, etc.
- Watch for weakened roads, bridges, tree limbs or porches that could collapse unexpectedly
- After power is restored, check the refrigerator for any spoiled food .
- When reinstalling a CB, TV or satellite antenna, check in all directions to be sure no power lines are nearby
- If trying to clear debris from trees, check in all directions for power lines
- Do not operate charcoal grills, propane camping stoves or generators indoors
- Always be aware of your surroundings and stay as up to date as possible on storm conditions and damages. It cannot be stressed enough how dangerous sight seeing is in the wake of a hurricane. For your own safety, follow these tips and stay safe during the next big one.