Hurricane Preparedness

BEFORE:

Start preparing for a hurricane now, before it arrives. First, you should understand your hurricane risk. Learn how hurricanes are not just a coastal problem but can also occur hundreds of miles inland.

•  Build an emergency plan. Your emergency plan should include details on evacuation routes, locations of important documents, phone numbers and addresses, etc.
• Gather supplies for your emergency supply kit. Your kit should include water, food, flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, local maps, cell phones with wireless chargers, medicine, pet supplies, blankets, clothing, a hand crank radio, and more!

DURING:

Once a hurricane arrives, you need to stay informed of the situation. Pay close attention to emergency information and alerts. If you are asked to evacuate, do so immediately.

• Always determine how to best protect yourself from incoming weather. Stationing yourself in a storm shelter or an interior room will better protect you from high winds. In the event of flooding, go to the highest floor of a building. Never try to walk or drive through flood waters. Remember, Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

AFTER:

Pay attention to local authorities with special instructions and important information regarding post-hurricane activities. If you have evacuated, be sure it is safe to return to your home.

• Consult with professional services, such as emergency sleaning agencies, when your property needs to be cleaned of any damage or debris. When cleaning your property after a hurricane, wear protective clothing and equipment, such as gloves, closed toe shoes, hard hats, etc.
• Don’t walk through flood waters. Downed or underground power lines can electrically charge the flood waters. Standing flood water can contain dangerous pathogens that cause severe illnesses.
• Document and photograph any damage to your home to file a claim with your insurance company or FEMA.

To learn more about staying prepared for hurricanes, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) website. If you would like to volunteer in emergency preparedness outreach/education, look up “Become an Emergency Preparedness Volunteer” on Volunteer Alexandria’s volunteer opportunities page. Email EmergencyResponse@volunteeralexandria.org, for more information or questions you may have.