Getting Your Family Prepared for a hurricane?

When it comes to disasters, most people tend to think, “Oh this won’t happen to me.” A disaster can occur in your community. It can happen to you. However, knowing some basic information about the different types of disasters and what you can do to get ready will help to make things feel less frightening and overwhelming.

City of Homestead:

“City of Homestead’s Emergency Management Staff is currently monitoring the progress of Hurricane Irma. Based on the latest information from the National Weather Service we have all our city departments and personnel engaged in basic preparation activities. At this time there are no planned sandbag distributions, evacuations, or shelter activations. Residents can find information on recommended storm preparations, emergency kit contents, and emergency contact information online at www.cityofhomestead.com/preparedness.”

Hurricanes
Planning ahead and learning about hurricane watches and warnings can reduce the chances of injury or major property damage during a hurricane. There are some steps you can take to protect your family during a hurricane.

Before the storm:
   •   Plan an evacuation route
   •   Have a plan. Know where nearby shelters are located and which routes you would take if you needed to evacuate
   •   Have disaster supplies on hand.
   •   If you have pets, know where you would take them. Contact the local humane society to find out where there is an animal shelter in your area
   •   Make sure that all family members know what to do during a hurricane
   •   Have a plan for getting your family back together in the event that family members are separated when the storm hits.

During a hurricane watch:
   •   The National Weather Service issues a hurricane watch when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24-36 hours.
   •   Listen to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio, a portable battery-powered radio (or television), or a smart phone for updated emergency information of watches issued in your area.
   •   Check emergency supplies.
   •   Fuel your car.
   •   Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys, and garden tools, and anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
   •   Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows.
   •   Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly.
   •   Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles or cooking pots.
   •   Review your evacuation plan.

During a hurricane warning:
   •   A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in 24 hours or less.
   •   Stay inside, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
   •   Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries handy. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps.
   •   If power is lost, unplug appliances to reduce power “surges” when electricity is restored.
   •   Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio, a portable battery-powered radio (or television), or a smart phone for updated emergency information.

If you are told to evacuate:
   •   Leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads and bridges.
   •   Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.
   •   Tell someone outside of the storm area where you are going.
   •   If time permits, move valuable items to a higher floor.
   •   Take your Family Readiness Kit and disaster supplies.

Disaster Supplies List for Families
Additional supplies to keep at home or in your car may be recommended based on the types of disasters common to your area.

Non-Food Items:
   •   A note to remind you what you still need to take care of (e.g., get medical equipment; charge cell phones)
   •   Cell phone charger
   •   Crank or battery-powered radio, flashlights
   •   Extra batteries
   •   First aid kit (include acetaminophen or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug NSAID, antibiotic cream and antacids) and manual.
   •   Prescription medications (month’s supply recommended).
   ◦   Medicine should be clearly labeled and kept separate from other supplies. Always have one refill left on prescription medicine, especially for chronic conditions such as diabetes.
   •   Photocopies of prescriptions (pharmacy records may not be available right away)
   •   Credit card and cash
   •   Personal identification and current family identification photos
   •   Spare set of car keys
   •   Extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses
   •   Matches in a waterproof container
   •   Whistle
   •   Map of the area
   •   List of important phone numbers
   •   Special items for babies/young children/elderly.
   •   Three-day supply of water (one gallon per day per person)
   •   Toiletries (e.g., toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, hand sanitizer) and toilet paper
   •   Paper and pencils
   •   Masking or duct tape
   •   Water purification method (e.g., bleach or tablets)
   •   Plastic bucket with a tight lid
   •   Plastic garbage bags
   •   Non-electric can opener and utility knife (like a Swiss Army knife)
   •   Paper cups, plates, and plastic utensils
   •   Blankets or sleeping bags
   •   A change of clothing, rain gear, and sturdy shoes for each family member.
   ◦   In warm weather climates, you may also want to include sunscreen and insect repellant
   •   Disposable gloves
   •   Rope
   •   Sensory toys or calming devices (e.g., weighted vests, chew toys, fidget toys, white noise or sound machines, blankets)
   •   Baby supplies such as diapers, formula, baby food, and wipes

Food Items:
   •   Peanut butter and jelly
   •   Ready-to-eat canned soup, canned meat, milk, fish, fruit and vegetables (three day supply, including pet food)
   •   Bread/crackers stored in waterproof bag or container
   •   Powdered or single serve drinks
   •   Cereal/granola bars
   •   Protein bars
   •   Packaged condiments

For Pets:
   •   A two-week supply of dry and canned food
   •   Water (1/2 gallon per day)
   •   Litter box supplies
   •   Traveling cage

Haz clic para leer en Español: ¿Cómo preparar a su familia para un huracán?