DON'T WAIT - Important Things to do Before a Storm

Look over your insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage.

Check the storm surge history and elevation of your area.

Make an inventory of possessions.

Photograph your house and all the rooms inside for insurance purposes.

Make sure your roofing is properly fastened and secure - make all necessary repairs.

Obtain lumber, plywood, and concrete nails for battening up.

Know your evacuation route.

Organise a place to meet with your family should you become separated during the storm.

Clear your yard and drains of debris.

Prune tree limbs that are close to your house. They can cause damage to your home or utility wires during a storm.

Find a place to move your boat in an emergency.

If your home is at risk, plan in advance where you will stay. Call the Office of Disaster Preparedness for the location of the nearest shelter.

If you need transportation to a public shelter due to special needs - such as age, physical disability, or mental disorder, register in advance with the nearest village or town council office.

STORM LOOMS: What to do if ... a hurricane WATCH is issued

Listen to weather updates.

Bring in outdoor objects such as lawn furniture, hanging plants, bicycles, toys and garden tools.

Close all windows and doors. Cover windows with storm shutters or pre-cut plywood.

Elevate furniture or relocate them to a higher floor to protect from flooding.

Fill your vehicle's gas tank.

What to do When a Hurricane WARNING is Issued

Secure your home by unplugging appliances and turning off electricity and the main water valve.

Stay away from windows, skylights and glass doors. Obey evacuation order, if issued.

Park your car in a place that will be safest from falling trees and utility poles.

If you are in a high-rise, know the location of the nearest stairway. Don't use the elevator.

Batten down windows and doors with shutters or lumber. Wedge sliding glass doors with a bar.

Turn refrigerator and freezer to the coldest level. Freeze water in plastic containers.

Sanitise bathtubs and fill with water.

Wrap important papers (passports, birth certificates etc) in plastic or in waterproof containers and store in a safe room.

Evacuation Storm Surge Evacuation Tips

Minimise the distance you must travel to reach a safe location.

Select the nearest possible evacuation destination, preferably within your local area, and map out your route.

Choose the home of the closest friend or relative outside a designated evacuation zone, or go to a public shelter or hotel outside of the vulnerable area.

Contact your local emergency management office to register or get information. Prepare your home prior to leaving by boarding up doors and windows, securing or moving indoors all yard objects, and turning off all utilities.

Before leaving, fill your car with gas and withdraw extra money from the ATM.

Take all prescription medicines and special medical items, such as glasses and diapers.

If your family evacuation plan includes a boat or trailer, leave early.

If you are ordered by local officials to evacuate, do so as quickly as possible. Don't delay.

Stay tuned to a local radio or television station. Going to a Shelter

Check with parish disaster coordinator for available shelters in your area.

Find out about adequate amenities/facilities at shelter ahead of time.

Carry enough food and water for three days. Don't expect to be fed by emergency crew.

Take with you medication, first-aid kit and change of clothes.

Wear comfortable footwear such as sneakers or water boots if flooding is likely.

Also take blanket, pillow and sleeping bag.