Hurricane Preparedness: How to Stay Safe Before the Storm

Sep 26

Hurricanes are powerful storms that can cause widespread destruction, especially along coastal areas. Being prepared well in advance is the key to minimizing risk and protecting both your property and your family. With the Atlantic hurricane season running from June 1 to November 30, now is the time to get prepared. This guide will help you understand the necessary steps to take before a hurricane strikes, as well as provide insights into the hurricane wind categories and their potential impact.

Understanding Hurricane Categories and Wind Speeds

Hurricanes are classified using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which assigns a category based on sustained wind speeds. The higher the category, the stronger and more destructive the storm is likely to be.

Category 1 (74-95 mph): Minimal damage, but still dangerous. Can cause damage to roofs, siding, and gutters. Tree branches may break, and power outages are likely.
Category 2 (96-110 mph): Moderate damage with a greater risk of roof and siding failure. Trees may be uprooted, and power outages can last from days to weeks.
Category 3 (111-129 mph): Extensive damage. Well-built homes may lose roofs and windows. Trees will be snapped or uprooted, and there will be no electricity or water for several days to weeks.
Category 4 (130-156 mph): Severe damage. Most homes will suffer roof failure or damage to walls. Roads will be blocked, and the area may be uninhabitable for weeks to months.
Category 5 (157 mph or higher): Catastrophic damage. Many homes will be destroyed, and power outages will last for months. The area will likely be uninhabitable for an extended period.

Now that we’ve covered the different wind categories, let’s look at how you can prepare for a hurricane regardless of its intensity.

1. Create a Hurricane Emergency Kit

A well-stocked emergency kit is essential during a hurricane, especially when evacuations or prolonged power outages are possible. Your kit should include:

Non-perishable food and bottled water (enough for at least 3-7 days).
Flashlights, extra batteries, and a first-aid kit.
Portable phone chargers or power banks.
Prescribed medications and any necessary medical supplies.
Important documents (insurance papers, identification, etc.) in a waterproof container.
Cash (as ATMs may not work during power outages).
Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, hand sanitizer, wet wipes).

2. Prepare Your Home

Securing your property in advance can help minimize damage. Here’s how to get your home ready:

Install storm shutters or board up windows to protect against flying debris.
Secure loose outdoor items (like lawn furniture, grills, and potted plants) that could become projectiles in high winds.
Trim trees and remove any weak branches that could fall on your home or cars.
Reinforce your roof, doors, and garage doors, as these are weak points during a hurricane.
Check your drainage system to ensure it’s clear and functioning properly to reduce the risk of flooding.

3. Know Your Evacuation Plan

If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave immediately. Evacuations are ordered for your safety, especially in the event of a Category 3 or higher hurricane. Be sure to:

Know the evacuation routes and have a designated destination in mind, such as a relative’s home, a friend’s house, or a public shelter.
Prepare your car with a full tank of gas, and pack your emergency kit and valuables ahead of time.
Plan for your pets and make sure they are included in your evacuation plans. Bring pet supplies, food, and any necessary medications.

4. Stay Informed

Hurricanes can change course quickly, so it’s crucial to stay up-to-date with the latest information. Here are some tips:

Download weather apps or sign up for alerts to stay informed about hurricane watches and warnings in your area.
Tune in to local news stations or NOAA weather radio for real-time updates.
Follow evacuation orders and local guidance, especially for Category 3, 4, and 5 hurricanes, which can bring catastrophic damage.

5. Prepare for Power Outages

Power outages are common during hurricanes, particularly in Category 2 or higher storms. Here’s how to prepare:

Have backup power sources like a generator or fully charged power banks for essential devices.
Fill bathtubs and sinks with water for washing and flushing toilets if the water supply becomes limited.
Stock up on ice and coolers to keep food cold in case the power is out for extended periods.
Turn your refrigerator to the coldest setting and keep it closed as much as possible to preserve food for longer.

6. Post-Hurricane Safety

Once the storm has passed, safety remains a priority:

Stay indoors until local authorities announce that it’s safe to go outside.
Avoid flooded areas as they may be contaminated or contain dangerous debris. Floodwaters can also be deceptively deep and fast-moving.
Check for downed power lines and other hazards before venturing out.
Document any damage to your property with photos for insurance purposes.

Conclusion

Hurricanes are unpredictable, but by preparing in advance, you can significantly reduce your risk and increase your safety. Remember the key steps: create an emergency kit, secure your home, follow evacuation orders, and stay informed. And most importantly, understand the hurricane category system—knowing the wind speeds and potential damage can help you make informed decisions when the storm is approaching.

Stay safe this hurricane season by preparing early, staying alert, and always having a plan in place.

Dustin Lawson