Hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, but it’s important to be prepared all year long. As part of Hurricane Preparedness Week, the National Hurricane Center wants people to get ready for the upcoming season before it begins.
Here are some tips to help you get ready:
1. Know your risk
The first step in preparing for hurricane season is to understand your risk. This includes knowing your location’s history of hurricanes, the types of hazards that are common in your area, and the strength of the storms that you’re likely to experience. You can find this information from your local emergency management office or from the National Hurricane Center.
2. Create an emergency plan
Once you know your risk, you can start creating an emergency plan. This plan should include things like:
- A list of emergency contacts
- A plan for evacuation, if necessary
- A plan for sheltering in place, if necessary
- A plan for your pets
- A plan for your belongings
3. Stock up on supplies
It’s important to have a supply of food, water, and other essential items on hand in case of a hurricane. This should include:
- Non-perishable food
- Water
- First aid supplies
- Flashlights and batteries
- Radio
- Sanitation supplies
- Tools
- Cash
4. Secure your home
There are a number of things you can do to secure your home before hurricane season, such as:
- Board up windows
- Secure loose objects outside
- Trim trees and shrubs
- Have your roof inspected
- Get flood insurance
5. Stay informed
It’s important to stay informed about the latest hurricane forecasts and warnings. You can do this by following local news outlets, listening to NOAA weather radio, and signing up for emergency alerts from your local government.
6. Practice your plan
It’s a good idea to practice your emergency plan with your family at least once a year. This will help you make sure that everyone knows what to do in case of a hurricane.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure your safety and the safety of your family during hurricane season.