How to Survive a Hurricane

Catastrophic natural disasters such as hurricanes can be very costly and frustrating. Many people have lost property and their loved ones when hurricanes occur. Are you aware that you can prevent the negative impacts of a hurricane by preparing your home and family for the before, during, and after such an event? If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, you should have a survival plan in place.

What Should you Do Before the Storm?

WATCH:

1. Get your Survival Kit Ready

Prevention is one of the best strategies. You however know that some events will still occur despite your efforts to avoid them. Before any hurricane, try to be prepared with all the essential storm survival kits. Some of the items to include in your hurricane emergency survival kit include a light source, a first aid kit, a flotation device, a radio, and a walkies talkie. Pack a kit that will serve you efficiently for at least three days after a hurricane.

2. Ensure Your Property is Secure

Hurricanes are accompanied by strong winds and heavy downpours. You want to ensure that your house is well secured from the damages caused by the storm. You can secure your home by installing home storm shutters, fastening your roof with frames, getting rid of gutters, and pruning.

3. Research
   

Knowledge is a powerful prevention and survival tool. You need to know more about hurricanes predicted to hit the area you reside. Information such as the hurricane strength will be very useful in making decisions on what to do before the hurricane begins.

4. Ensure Utilities are Turned Off

Home utilities such as electricity and water can be more dangerous when interrupted by a natural event. Once you are aware that your area will be hit by a hurricane, ensure that utilities such as electricity and water source are turned off. This will help prevent any associated hazards.

5. Be Updated on the Storm Situation

Hurricane conditions change during the event and cause various surges. Always be updated on what is happening around your area. You can check on social media or listen to radio or television to stay informed.

What Should you Do when it Occurs?

1. Evacuate or find a place that keeps you safe from any strong winds and flooding caused by the hurricane.
2. Find a safe place during the hurricane such as an area away from any windows or glass doors, the highest level of the building, a sturdy item, or a smaller room or enclosure.
3. Avoid leaving a sheltered place and exposing yourself to the flood water to avoid being swept away or storm surge.
4. Do not operate or handle any electrical equipment as the storm continues to rage.
5. Do not shower or bathe during the storm to avoid electrical shock or accidents.

Conclusion

Since you cannot stop a hurricane from occurring, you need to be aware of what to do before, during, and after the event. Planning, preventing, and being cautious during the storm is effective for people who live in hurricane-prone areas. You should always be ready to take safety actions including evacuating during severe storms.