Preparedness is key during hurricane season. Here are our top five hurricane preparedness tips to keep your family safe. 

5 Ways To Prepare For A Hurricane

Here are the 5 hurricane preparedness tips to help you prepare for coming hurricanes:

1. Stock up on supplies and keep them in a “go bag” 

Make sure you have enough water, food, first aid supplies, emergency supplies (flashlight, battery-operated radio, cash, candles, matches stored in a waterproof container, whistle, extra batteries, etc.), and clothing to wait out the storm. 

That means three gallons of water per person (a three-day supply for drinking and food preparation/sanitation), a three-day supply of non-perishable food, a fully stocked first aid kit plus any prescription medications, at least one complete change of clothes per person, sturdy shoes and rain gear. 

Board games, cards, and books will also be useful to keep you entertained if you’re without power. Keep everything listed above in a waterproof “go bag” that you can easily grab if you’re forced to evacuate. 

2. Keep important documents and records in a waterproof container

These include passports, social security cards, immunization records, wills, insurance policies, contracts, deeds, credit card information, bank account numbers, and birth/marriage/death certificates. Keep them with you or store them in a place safe from wind and flood damage.  

3. Prepare for flooding and high winds

Clean out your outdoor drains. Remove any unsecured objects around the house including furniture, garbage cans, plants, and bicycles. If you have a garage, park your car in it. Reinforce your windows to guard them against high winds. 

Also, unplug any appliances before the storms and don’t use corded phones as they can be dangerous if there’s lightning. If you’re at home when the storm strikes, go to an interior room, preferably with no windows. 

Also related: You should consider getting a power generator for hurricane season.

4. Have an evacuation plan 

This includes knowing your evacuation route and if you’re planning on staying at a hotel, having the phone number handy so you can make a reservation. 

5. Have a family plan

Determine an out-of-town contact for family members to reach out to as well as a meeting place for family members to gather if they are separated. Make sure each family member has a paper copy of this information stored in a waterproof bag in case they’re unable to use their cell phones. It may also be useful to include local emergency contacts on this list.  

Pay close attention to the weather forecasts and carefully follow instructions from emergency management officials.