A hurricane is a tropical cyclone, which generally forms in the tropics and is accompanied by thunderstorms and a counterclockwise circulation of winds. Tropical cyclones are classified as follows:
TROPICAL DEPRESSION
An organized system of clouds and thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 38 mph or less
TROPICAL STORM
An organized system of strong thunderstorms with a defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 39-73 mph
HURRICANE
An intense tropical weather system of strong thunderstorms with a well-defined surface circulation and maximum sustained winds of 74 mph or higher
HURRICANE SUPPLY KIT
Water – at least 1 gallon daily per person for 3 to 7 days
Food – at least enough for 3 to 7 days for each person
non-perishable packaged or canned food/juices/ snack foods
foods for infants or the elderly
non-electric can opener
cooking tools/fuel (propane, charcoal, kerosene)
paper plates/plastic utensils
Blankets/pillows, etc.
Clothing – seasonal / rain gear/ sturdy shoes
First aid kit /medicines/prescription drugs
Special Items – for babies and the elderly
Toiletries/hygiene items/moisture wipes
Flashlight / batteries / candles
Radio – battery operated (weather radio is recommended)
Cash – banks and ATMs may be closed
Walkie-talkies / hard line phone (powered by the phone line directly)
Keys – house / car / safe deposit box / storage facility / etc.
Toys, books, and games
Important documents – in a waterproof container
insurance, medical records, bank account numbers, Social Security card, etc.
Tools – keep a set with you during the storm
Vehicle fuel tanks filled/fill extra tanks for generator use
Pet care items
proper identification / immunization records / medications
ample supply of food and water
a carrier or cage
muzzle and leash
FAMILY DISASTER PLAN
Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, flooding, and wind.
Locate a safe room or the safest area in your home for each hurricane hazard. In certain circumstances, the safest areas may not be your home but within your community.
Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet (rally points); including a child’s school, a neighbor’s home or other public places.
Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact. Have at least 2 ways of contact; e-mail, phone, etc.
Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
Check your insurance coverage – flood and wind damage may not be covered by homeowners insurance.
Check your insurance limits of liability.
Stock non-perishable emergency supplies within your HURRICANE SUPPLY KIT.
Use a weather radio. Remember to stock replacement batteries.
Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.