- Prepare a Ready kit for your home and vehicle in case you have to evacuate.
- Make a family communications plan.
- Familiarize yourself with terms associated with a hurricane.
- A tropical storm/hurricane watch means sustained tropical storm (39 mph to 73 mph) / hurricane (74 mph and higher) force winds are possible within 48 hours. Be prepared to evacuate.
- Make an evacuation plan for your family.
- Secure your property.
- Cover your home’s windows with hurricane shutters to protect them from winds. Another option is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior grade or marine pre-cut plywood.
- Bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans and anything else that is not tied down.
- Keep all trees and shrubs well-trimmed to make them more wind-resistant.
- Fill the gas tank in your car in case you have to evacuate.
- Plan ahead for your pets. Shelters cannot accept pets due to health reasons, so it’s important to find a pet-friendly hotel or make other arrangements.
- Know your area’s flood risk. If unsure, call your local emergency management agency or planning and zoning department, or visit www.floodsmart.gov.
Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider adding coverage. The National Flood Insurance Program is designed to provide flood insurance in exchange for the management of flood-prone areas by local communities.
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