Threats & Emergencies

Hurricanes

Hurricane Home • Hurricane Basics • Preparing for Hurricanes • Responding to Hurricanes

Responding to Hurricanes

During a hurricane or tropical storm WATCH (threat of hurricane or tropical storm conditions within 36 hours)

Monitor local radio or television stations for official emergency information and instructions. During evacuations, roadways can get crowded and airports might close. This can make it difficult to execute a recovery plan and get your vital records out of the area.

Interior Preparations:

Verify that vital records are in a safe storage area. Files, records and storage cabinets might be wrapped in plastic for moisture protection. If necessary, temporarily relocate records to a safe storage facility off-site.
Inventory hurricane emergency supplies and restock if necessary.
Clear all desk and table tops of small loose items.
Secure first floor doorways with sandbags, duct tape or heavy plastic to protect interior from possible flooding.
Disconnect all electrical appliances and equipment.
Box or place any loose papers, books, hanging plants etc., in desk drawers or storage cabinets.
Close and lock all windows; draw the blinds or drapes.
Secure adequate cash to operate for several days.

Exterior Preparations:

Secure all doors, windows and other openings against wind and water.
Tie down or bring indoors any objects that might be blown about by hurricane winds (display racks, signs and any other loose objects that are normally left outside).
Remove all outdoor signs, particularly those that swing or might cause damage during strong winds.
Secure all items that cannot be brought inside.
Ensure that all vehicles are serviced and fueled. Determine where they can be stored during the storm.
Remove antennas and loose objects from the roof.
Install hurricane shutters over glass doors and windows or use protective material such as plywood (at least 1/2 inch thick). Make sure that plywood is flush against the wall and tight; any gaps will allow wind to enter.
Notify local authorities that the building will be vacant, if an alarm has been activated or if security will be present.

During a hurricane or tropical storm WARNING (hurricane or tropical storm conditions are expected in 24 hours or less)

Listen to your battery-operated radio or NOAA Weather Radio.
If you are not advised to evacuate, stay inside, away from windows, skylights and doors, even if they are covered.
Close all interior doors. Closed doors will help prevent damaging hurricane winds from entering rooms.
Have a flashlight and extra batteries within reach. Flashlights provide the safest emergency lighting source.
If power is lost, turn off major equipment to reduce the power surge when electricity is restored.

After a hurricane or tropical storm

Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding, even after the hurricane or tropical storm has weakened.
Stay away from floodwater. Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
Examine the exterior of the building and walls, floors, doors, staircases and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing.
Initiate clean-up, document damages and contact your insurance agent.
Check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and get everyone outside quickly. Turn off the gas, using the outside main valve if you can, and call the gas company. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.
If someone needs to be rescued, call professionals with the right equipment to help. Many people have been killed or injured trying to rescue others in flooded areas.
Avoid loose or dangling power lines. Immediately report them to the power company, police or fire department.
Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights when examining buildings.
Check for sewer and water pipe damage. If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid using water from the tap.
Check refrigerated food for spoilage. If in doubt, throw it out. More information on food safety is available from the American Red Cross.
Open doors and windows to ventilate and dry the building.
Use the telephone only for emergency situations.