Get Ready Home About Hurricanes Preparation Homes and Property Elderly Residents Pets and Boats Tips for Businesses Operations Contacct Numbers Supply Kits Director's Letter

OUTSIDE YOUR HOME

  • Have your storm shutters ready for use and make sure you have all the parts.
  • DO NOT prune your trees at this time. Loose branches can become dangerous projectiles. Take any household or yard trash to your nearest Trash and Recycling Center for disposal. These Centers will remain open throughout the emergency, 24 hours a day.
  • Fuel and service all family vehicles.

INSIDE YOUR HOME

  • Check your hurricane supply kit.
  • Prepare a "safe room" if you plan to stay in your home. This room or closet should be small and away from all windows, skylights and outside doors.
  • Make sure all emergency battery-operated equipment is in working order.
  • Get extra cash or traveler's checks. Banks might be closed for days if a hurricane strikes.

MOBILE HOMES

  • Inspect and secure mobile home tie-downs.
  • Pack breakable items in padded boxes and put them on the floor.
  • Put lamps and taped mirrors in a padded bathtub.

APARTMENTS / CONDOS

  • Locate storm shutters for sliding doors and windows.
  • Prepare your "safe room" (interior bathroom, hallway, stairway, etc.)

    EVACUATION PREPARATION

  • Listen to TV or radio for evacuation instructions. If ordered to evacuate, move immediately.

BOATS

Marine experts say that if you plan to move your boat, you should do it at least 48 hours before a hurricane is expected to hit the area. (This is normally before a Hurricane Watch is issued.) You may need the extra time to move your boat because bridges might be locked down for land evacuation after a hurricane warning is issued. Make sure:

  • Fuel tanks are full, batteries are fully charged and fuel filters are clear.
  • Firefighting gear is fully functional.
  • Cockpit drains are clear and bilges are clean.
  • To remove or secure anything that can blow away or is susceptible to hurricane damage.
  • Boats are moored at locations near the ocean because they may take a beating against the dock during the storm surge. For the best offshore mooring procedures and locations, check local regulations.
  • To secure your boat from all possible directions; use more than one anchor.
  • Do not tie boats together; the probability of damage will be greater.