Simple Guide for Family Emergency Planning
As of 2024, Category 5 Hurricane Beryl was the strongest June storm ever. And history shows the worst storms often hit later in the season, like Hurricane Ian in September 2022, Michael in October 2018 and Maria in September 2017. Plus Matthew (October) and Harvey (August) in 2016. And Katrina in August 2005.
Experts were already predicting more hurricanes in 2024 but increased that number even more after Hurricane Beryl. They are projecting as many as 12 hurricanes and 25 named storms.
And if you think you’re out of the range of hurricanes, remember this. In 2012, Hurricane Sandy negatively impacted 24 of the 48 contiguous states—that’s nearly half our nation!
It's crucial to prepare now. If you need help getting started, here’s a straightforward guide to creating a family emergency plan for severe storms, including hurricanes.
Communication Plan
- Establish Contacts: Make a list of important phone numbers, including family, neighbors, local emergency services, and out-of-town contacts. Ensure everyone has a copy.
- Designate a Contact Person: Choose someone outside your area as a main contact to relay information if local phone lines are down.
- Use Texts and Social Media: In emergencies, texts and social media might work better than calls.
Evacuation Plan & Meeting Point
- Plan Routes: Get maps and mark several evacuation routes. Roads might be closed, so have alternatives.
- Know Shelter Locations: Identify nearby shelters.
- Transportation: Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full. Have bicycles available for navigating blocked roads.
- Meeting Places: Choose safe meeting points outside your neighborhood. Make sure everyone knows the addresses and routes.
Emergency Kit
- Personal Bug-Out Bags: Each family member should have a bag with essentials.
- Family Emergency Kit: Pack a three-day supply of nonperishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, multi-tool, medications, and important documents in a waterproof container.
Information and Updates
- Weather Radio: Use an emergency weather radio for updates. Sign up for weather alerts on mobile devices.
- Understand Alerts: Know that “watches” mean conditions are right for severe weather, while “warnings” mean severe weather has been observed in your area.
Home Preparation
- Secure Your Home: Protect windows with storm shutters or plywood, trim tree branches, and secure outdoor items.
- Stay Safe Inside: During storms, stay in interior rooms or basements away from windows. Close blinds and move valuables away from windows.
- Insurance: Ensure you have coverage for wind, hail, and flood damage.
- Utilities: Know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water if you need to evacuate.
Pets
- Prepare for Pets: Block off hiding places and prepare a pet emergency kit with food, water, meds, ID tags, and toys.
- Pet-Friendly Hotels: List pet-friendly hotels in and out of your area.
Post-Storm Plan
- Meeting Spot: Have a post-storm meeting place if you can’t gather during the emergency.
- Return Home Safely: Be cautious of flooding, gas leaks, and structural damage. Assume water might be contaminated.
- Assess Damage: Document any damage for insurance purposes.
Practice & Stay Prepared
- Drills: Conduct monthly family emergency drills to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.
- Review and Update Plan: Regularly update your emergency plan, especially as hurricane season progresses and other storms occur.
- Remember, preparedness = peace of mind. And being prepared for storms means having a plan in place. Follow these steps to ensure your family’s safety and peace of mind.
References:
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