Fresh Start August 2016 | Page 25

* Turn on your TV / radio, or check your city / county website every 30 minutes in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.  What To Do When A Hurricane Is 6-18 Hours From Arriving * Turn on your TV / radio, or check your city / county website every 30 minutes in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions. * Charge your cell phone now so you will have a full battery in case you lose power.  What To Do When A Hurricane Is 18-36 Hours From Arriving * Bookmark your city or county website for quick access to storm updates and emergency instructions. * Bring loose, lightweight objects inside that could become projectiles in high winds( e. g., patio furniture, garbage cans); anchor objects that would be unsafe to bring inside( e. g., propane tanks); and trim or remove trees close enough to fall on the building. * Cover all of your home’ s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5 / 8” exterior grade or marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install.  What To Do When A Hurricane Is 36 Hours From Arriving * Turn on your TV or radio in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions. * Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit. Include a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies. * Plan how to communicate with family members if you lose power. For example, you can call, text, email or use social media. Remember that during disasters, sending text messages is usually reliable and faster than making phone calls because phone lines are often overloaded. * Review your evacuation plan with your family. You may have to leave quickly so plan ahead. * Keep your car in good working condition, and keep the gas tank full; stock your vehicle with emergency supplies and a change of clothes.  After A Hurricane * Listen to local officials for updates and instructions. * Check-in with family and friends by texting or using social media. * Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. * Watch out for debris and downed power lines. * Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and fast-moving water can sweep your vehicle away. * Avoid flood water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines and may hide dangerous debris or places where the ground is washed away. * Photograph the damage to your property in order to assist in filing an insurance claim. * Do what you can to prevent further damage to your property,( e. g., putting a tarp on a damaged roof), as insurance may not cover additional damage that occurs after the storm.  When There Is No Hurricane: Make A Hurricane Plan * Know your hurricane risk. Talk to your local emergency management agency. * Make an emergency plan. * Build or restock your basic disaster supplies kit, including food and water, a flashlight, batteries, chargers, cash, and first aid supplies. * Consider buying flood insurance. * Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans. Know where to go and how to get there should you need to get to higher ground or to evacuate. * Stay tuned to local wireless emergency alerts, TV, or radio for weather updates, emergency instructions, or evacuation orders.
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