When a hurricane watch or warning is issued
A Hurricane Watch is issued when hurricane conditions are likely within 24-36 hours.
- Listen to a battery-operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports.
- Check emergency supplies.
- Fuel car.
- Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, toys and garden tools; anchor objects that cannot be brought inside.
- Secure buildings by closing and boarding up windows.
- Remove outside antennas.
- Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings.
- Open refrigerator only when absolutely necessary and close quickly.
- Store drinking water in clean bathtubs, jugs, bottles and cooking utensils.
- Store valuables and personal papers in a waterproof container on the highest level of your home.
- Review evacuation plan.
- Moor boat securely or move it to a designated safe place. Use rope or chain to secure boat to trailer. Use tiedowns to anchor trailer to the ground or house.
A Hurricane Warning is issued when hurricane conditions are expected in 24 hours or less.
- Listen constantly to a battery-operated radio or television for official instructions.
- If in a mobile home, check tiedowns and evacuate immediately.
- Avoid elevators.
If officials indicate evacuation is necessary:
- Leave as soon as possible. Avoid flooded roads and watch for washed-out bridges.
- Unplug appliances. Turn off electricity, gas and main water valve.
- Tell your designated family contact or someone outside of the storm area where you are going.
- If time permits, and you live in a surge or flood zone, elevate furniture to protect it from flooding or better yet, move it to a higher floor.
- Take Disaster Supply Kit, warm protective clothing, blankets and sleeping bags to shelter.
- Lock up home and leave.