Last Updated on April 30, 2024 by Gardens Home Management Services
Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Their impacts can be felt hundreds of miles inland and significant impacts can occur without it being a major hurricane. Hurricane Preparedness Week is your time to prepare for a potential land-falling tropical storm or hurricane.
Sunday, May 5 – Know Your Risk: Wind & Water
The first step of preparing for hurricanes is to know your risk. Find out today what types of water and wind hazards could happen where you live. Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Impacts from wind and water can be felt hundreds of miles inland, and significant impacts can occur regardless of the storm’s strength. Know if you live in an area prone to flooding, if you live in an evacuation zone, and identify any structural weaknesses in your home.
Monday, May 6 – Prepare Before Hurricane Season
The best time to prepare for hurricanes is BEFORE hurricane season begins. Avoid having to rush through potentially life-saving preparations by waiting until it’s too late. Get your disaster supplies while the shelves are still stocked, and get that insurance checkup early, as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.
Tuesday, May 7 – Understand Forecast Information
Prepare for hurricane season by knowing how to understand forecasts. National Weather Service forecast products can tell you a lot about what is expected to happen with a storm, including the storm’s paths, rainfall amounts, wind speeds, and more. There is a lot of information available days ahead of a storm, and it is important to understand what it means.
Wednesday, May 8 – Get Moving When A Storm Threatens
When a storm is forecast to impact your area, take action immediately to be ready. Ideally, longer-term preparedness actions such as having disaster supplies and an evacuation plan will have already been done before hurricane season, when the stores are stocked and time is on your side. When a storm threatens, there’s a lot more to do.
Thursday, May 9 – Stay Protected During Storms
During a storm, whether you’ve evacuated or are sheltering in place, know what to expect from the hazards you may face. Remain vigilant, stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts and alerts, and continue to listen to local officials.
Friday, May 10 – Use Caution After Storms
Dangers remain even after the skies turn blue. This is NOT the time to put your guard down. Nearly half of hurricane fatalities occur after the storm. If you evacuated, return home ONLY when officials say it is safe. Check with local officials both where you’re staying and back home before you travel.
Saturday, May 11 – Take Action Today
The time to prepare for a hurricane is NOW, before the season begins. Once you’re under pressure, having a written plan will take the guesswork out of what you need to do to protect you and your family. Know where you will ride out the storm and get your supplies now. You don’t want to be standing in long lines when a Hurricane Watch is issued. Those supplies that you need will probably be sold out by the time you reach the front of the line. Being prepared now will mean the difference between your being a hurricane victim and a hurricane survivor.
Remember, it only takes one storm to change your life and community. For more information on hurricanes & hurricane safety, click here.
GHMS will keep you informed and up to date on the front page of our website. Please refer to the front page of our site before, during and after the storm for any and all important information regarding the storm and the precautions that we are taking.