Hurricane Checklist - Before the Storm

YOUR HOME

• Know the hurricane risks for your area.
• Find out if your home is subject to storm surge flooding.
• Inspect your property for potential problems that may arise during a hurricane.
• Consider installing permanent protection for your windows. Learn how to install any manual window protection that you may have so that you can do so quickly if a hurricane threatens the area.

YOUR BOAT

• If you own a boat, plan ahead where you will put it in case of a weather emergency.  

YOUR PROPERTY/INSURANCE

• Investigate flood insurance. Your local Emergency Management office or insurance agent can inform you about the National Flood Insurance Program. 
• Inventory your property by making a list, taking photographs, or making a video. Store in a secure, dry place like your safety deposit box. 

YOUR FAMILY

• Devise an emergency communications plan with your family so that you will know what to do in the event you are separated.
• Also, ask an out-of-state friend or relative to be the family contact. If family members need to call this person, it will be easier since local lines may be disrupted. 
• Make sure that family members know how to respond during a hurricane emergency. Teach them how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water. 

EVACUATION/SHELTERS

• Plan your evacuation route to an area well inland. This plan should include information about the safest routes and nearby emergency shelters.
• Check how long it will take you to reach your safe area during peak evacuation traffic. 
• Make advance arrangements for pets. EMERGENCY SHELTERS CANNOT TAKE PETS! 

SUPPLIES

• Consider purchasing UV resistant tarps and other tools needed to make temporary repairs. 
• Gather your disaster supplies. Prepare for the worst, get enough applicable supplies for at least 3 days. See PREPARING AN EVACUATION KIT for a list of disaster supplies to include in your kit.