Storms | What Actions to Take

Prior to the approach of the hurricane season, perhaps as early as May, is the time to take action by preparing a home survival kit and making emergency plans for each member of the family. Don't wait until a Hurricane Watch is issued to make your preparations. When a Hurricane Watch is declared, make final preparations and review emergency plans with your family.

When a tropical system approaches, listen to your radio or TV for instructions. When advised, or if threatened by the conditions in your area, evacuate to sturdy buildings or public shelters and leave areas that may flood. Stay indoors during high winds. You are urged not to go "sightseeing" during or immediately after a storm. You could risk your life as well as the lives of people who may try to help you should you get into trouble. You may also hamper the work of emergency crews.

Make whatever telephone calls you need to make, but limit those calls to less than a minute if possible. This is to avoid telephone gridlock and to keep lines open for emergency calls. Remember, overloading circuits reduces the efficiency of the entire phone system.