During inclement weather conditions, safety must be your first priority. A hurricane in your area can be devastating, especially if you have not adequately prepared your family on how to best ensure their safety. Technically, a hurricane is classified as being a tropical weather system that has wind speeds of 74 mph or greater. Because hurricanes have the potential to be extremely dangerous, it’s best if you are familiar with some general tips that will help you to keep your family safe during a hurricane.
Hurricane Safety Tips #1 – Evacuation
If an evacuation takes place in your area, you may only have a short amount of time to grab essentialbelongings and vacate the area before a hurricane hits. Because of this, it’s best if you have a plan for evacuation situations that you discuss with your family. If you will be evacuating in your own vehicle, try to instruct each family member on what they need to take with them. It’s best if you only take essential documents (passport, licence, birth certificates, etc), warm clothes, emergency supplies and a three-day supply of food and water. It’s best if you have a prepared kit of supplies that you can rely on to meet your emergency supply requirements.
Hurricane Safety Tips #2 – Secure your Home
To help minimize hurricane damage, it’s best if you take certain precautions in order to secure your home. This may involve installing impact-resistant windows, storm shutters, or even using plywood to protect your windows. Be sure that all windows, doors, and other entry points in your home are securely locked, as there are some burglars who may take advantage of vacated homes after an evacuation.
Hurricane Safety Tips #3 – Stay Indoors
If circumstances prevent you from leaving your home, there are several things that you need to do to ensure your family’s safety. Opening windows during a hurricane can actually result in more damage to your home, so be sure to leave your windows tightly shut. Have all of your family members relocate to a central area in your home, preferably a room without any windows. It’s best if you do not go into your basement unless you are advised to do so by the Emergency Weather Service, as this can be a dangerous area if the hurricane causes flooding in your area. Be sure that you have both a flashlight and a battery-powered radio ready, so that you can keep up-to-date with the hurricane’s status in your area. Unplug all appliances, and be prepared to turn off your utilities if instructed to do so by the Emergency Weather Service.
Hurricane Safety Tips #4 – Keep your Family Calm
A hurricane can be a very scary situation, especially for young children in your family. To help keep your family calm during a hurricane, be prepared to provide reassurance and distraction. For younger children, bring a toy or interactive game into the “safe room” in your house. Explain to your children how hurricanes are formed, since understanding the storm can help take away some of their fear. If you are evacuating with your family, bring along a few familiar items that can help your children to deal with being in the evacuation shelter. Keep your family’s mood positive, assuring them that you will do everything you can to be certain that they are safe.
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