* 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 .
August Edition 25