Hurricanes: Do you know what to do?

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Kristina Newton
  • 1st SOW Public Affairs
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Hurricane season is in full swing, and there are some very important issues everyone living in a hurricane zone should be aware of. 

One of the most important steps to staying safe during a hurricane is to know what is going on. According to the American Red Cross, residents should constantly monitor the television, radio and Internet for timely updates when a hurricane is approaching and evacuate when advised to do so. The base's Web site, www.hurlburt.af.mil, will be continuously updated with pertinent information. 

It's also important to have family communication and evacuation plans. A family communication plan should list an out-of-town contact that can be called during an evacuation. Ask the contact to get in touch with other people who should be informed of the family's situation. Communication plans include the name, phone number and e-mail address of all persons to be contacted. 

Plan the evacuation route ahead of time using a map, and have an alternative route available if the primary becomes impassible. Plans should also be made to take pets with the family. Identify pet friendly hotels on the evacuation route before evacuating. 

The Red Cross says to keep in mind that shelters only accept service animals, so evacuees will need to plan on a safe location for family and pets. Also, don't forget to bring extra food, water and supplies for family pets. 

Another important step is the preparation of a disaster supply kit. At a minimum, the kit should contain non-perishable or canned food items, a manual can opener, water, clothing, a battery operated radio, flashlight, extra batteries, important medication, a first aid kit and a map of the area. Other items to consider are important documents and special care items for infants, the elderly and people with disabilities. 

The Red Cross also suggests preparing the home to avoid unnecessary damages. Bring lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging planters, outdoor decorations and anything else that can be blown around by the wind inside a fixed structure. Close all windows and doors, then close hurricane shutters or install pre-cut plywood for extra protection. The Red Cross warns that taping windows will not prevent them from breaking. 

Although a home may be well prepared for a hurricane, there is always the possibility of evacuation. When the call comes, heed it. This is the time to put the evacuation plan into effect. Continue to monitor information sources as they are available and follow all directions given by authorities. 

Last but not least, use common sense. The Red Cross warns to stay away from flood areas. Flooding can begin long before a hurricane hits land. Don't try to drive through flooded areas. Most cars can be swept away in as little as two feet of running water, and roads may be washed away without warning. If caught in a flooded area, immediately evacuate the vehicle and move to higher ground. 

Tornadoes can happen during a hurricane and after it passes, so be aware of changes in weather conditions. Choose a safe place indoors near the center of your home and know the local warning system. 

Be aware that the calm or eye of the storm is deceptive. Don't be lulled into a false sense of security because the wind and rain has temporarily died down. The worst part of the storm will happen once the eye passes. And don't forget to check on neighbors, especially the elderly and family members of deployed or TDY servicemembers; they may require help evacuating. 

These are just some of the items on the Red Cross hurricane evacuation checklist. For a complete list and other helpful hurricane resources, go to www.hurlburt.af.mil and click on the hurricane link.