Hurricanes
Hurricanes commonly occur during the summer and fall. They may bring high winds, heavy rains and flooding.
Is it a watch or warning?
- A hurricane watch means there is a threat of hurricane conditions in the next 24-36 hours.
- A hurricane warning means hurricane conditions are expected in less than 24 hours.
Before Hurricane Season:
- Use cables or chains to strap or tie down manufactured homes to a concrete foundation.
- Plan an evacuation route. Learn safe routes inland. Be ready to drive 20 to 50 or more miles inland to a safe place.
- Make arrangements for pets. Pets may not be allowed into emergency shelters for health and space reasons. Contact your local humane society for information on local shelters.
- Trim dead tree branches.
- Check into flood insurance. There is a 30-day period before a new policy becomes effective. Homeowners policies do not cover damage from flooding caused by a hurricane.
During A Hurricane Watch:
- Listen to a radio or television for hurricane progress reports and fill up car with gas.
- Bring in outdoor objects such as furniture, toys, and tools and anchor objects that cannot be moved inside.
- Remove outside antennas.
- Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings. Open only when necessary.
- Store drinking water in clean jugs, bottles, and containers.
- Store valuables and papers in waterproof containers.
During A Hurricane Warning:
- Listen for official instructions.
- If in a mobile home, check tie downs and evacuate.
- Avoid elevators.
- Stay inside away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
- Keep a supply of flashlights and extra batteries nearby. Avoid open flames, such as candles and kerosene lamps, as a source of light.
- If power is lost, turn off major appliances to reduce power "surge" when electricity is restored.
- Leave immediately, if officials indicate evacuation is necessary.
- Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and water.
- Elevate furniture to protect it from flooding or move it to a higher floor if time permits.
- Take pre-assembled emergency supplies, warm protective clothing, blankets and sleeping bags to shelter.
- Lock up home and leave.
After A Hurricane:
- Stay tuned to your radio and television for information.
- Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe.
- Stay away from downed power lines. Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police or fire department.
- Enter your home with caution. Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven indoors by water.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
- Check foods for spoilage.
- Take pictures of the damage, both to the house and its contents for insurance claims.
Page created and maintained by Vickie Hickman and Tift County CERT volunteers.
Last change: July 4, 2009
Copyright 2009, Vickie Hickman