Hurricane season began June 1 and ends November 30. Weather predictors are expecting a number of hurricanes this season and a few may be quite intense. In order to be prepared for what Mother Nature may throw out, you need to have a plan. In the event you choose not to or are not able to evacuate, you need to have a Safe Room designated for all household members to go to before the storm hits.
Since homes in the areas where hurricanes hit do not have basements, you should decide upon the area in your home that provides the most shelter. A closet, hallway, bathroom, or a small interior room on the lowest level of your home, is the safest place. A room such as a walk-in closet or bathroom near the center of the house is probably the strongest room to be in. You might think about having a contractor create a reinforced safe area in your house large enough for your household in case of emergency.
The interior of your home is usually the most stable. It is important to be away from windows and doors. If you choose a closet as your safe room, the clothes in there can offer extra protection. You should stock the closet, or what ever room you choose, with extra pillows and blankets. If you use a small bedroom with few or no windows, you can use the mattress and box springs as protection against flying debris..
The room you choose needs to be large enough to hold all family members, including your pets and the emergency supplies you need in it. If of sufficient size, an interior bathroom without windows may work for you. The main thing to remember is to stay away from windows and glass doors. If you have storm shutters, close them. If not you can put sturdy plywood over the windows.
Collect a large supply of water, turn off gas and electricity and listen to the radio for storm instructions. Stock the safe room before the hurricane hits. Be prepared to be confined in your safe room for at least 12 hours, but have a three day supply of food and water because there may not be any electricity or water following the storm. Take with you a first aid kit, flashlights, radios, batteries, cell phones and games for the kids and pets.
Do not leave the safe room until you are sure it is safe to do so. Keep the radio tuned to the local radio station where you will receive directions and weather updates.
Keep in mind that should you be caught unprepared, go to the center of the house and lie on the floor under a table or other sturdy object.
