Hurricane: Necessary Citizen Response
There are extensive warning systems for hurricanes throughout the United States and around the world. The important thing is to be informed on the subject so as to differentiate between a hurricane WATCH and WARNING, and be prepared by planning ahead of time your emergency responses to each scenario.
Hurricane Watch
A hurricane watch means that hurricane conditions are possible in the specified area of the watch, usually within 36 hours. If one is issued, bring inside anything that can be picked up by the wind: lawn ornaments, trashcans, small plants. These items become dangerous projectiles when wind speeds increase. Use precut plywood boards to protect your windows – tape will NOT work. Stockpile canned goods, water, and fill up the gas tank in your car.
Hurricane Warning
A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions are expected in the specified area of the warning, usually within 24 hours. Stay away from windows if an evacuation is not advised. As an informed citizen, you know that the calm eye of the storm can often be deceptive so you should not let your guard down.
Evacuation
You should also have a plan in case of an evacuation. Map out several locations to evacuate to: a friend’s home in another town, motels and hotels, or a shelter. Listen to the NOAA Weather Radio or local weather news and be sure to evacuate immediately after telling someone outside the storm area where you are going. Be ready to leave with these crucial items:
- Personal medications and medical supplies
- Clothes, sleeping bags and pillows
- Bottled water, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, first aid kit, flashlight
- Car keys and maps
- Important personal documents
At home, you can install hurricane shutters or use 1/2in outdoor plywood boards to board up your windows. You should pre-drill holes in the plywood to make this process easier. You can also remove dead or damaged limbs on your trees so they do not catch wind and become projectiles.
Sources Consulted
Sources
- Atlantic Oceanographic Meteorological Laboratory. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. 18 Feb 2006. <http://www.aoml.noaa.gov/hrd/tcfaq/tcfaqHED.html>
- "Get Prepared: Hurricanes." American Red Cross. American Red Cross. 18 Feb 2006. <http://www.redcross.org/services/prepare/0,1082,0_253_,00.html>
- "Hurricanes." FEMA: Hurricanes. FEMA. 18 Feb 2006. <http://www.fema.gov/hazards/hurricanes>