From your CERT Team:
May marks the beginning of hurricane season in the US. Hurricanes always come with powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding, which can cause significant harm to life and damage property.
May 9 – 16 is Hurricane Preparedness Week, so now is the time to get ready. Here are some ways to stay ahead of the storm and be better prepared.
Be on Alert
- Know the risks in your area. Tornados, strong winds, and heavy rains causing flooding. Never drive through flooded roads.
- Download the FEMA app to your mobile phone and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service to be informed about hurricane watches and warnings.
- Sign up for community alerts in your area.
- Be informed about the latest CDC guidance on COVID-19 to see how it could impact your plans.
Make an Emergency Plan
- Get started by having enough supplies for your household, including medication, disinfectants, masks, pet supplies, important documents in a waterproof bag, ID, Money, insurance information, and medical information in your go bag or car trunk.
- Make sure to have extra water and nonperishable foods at home. After a hurricane, you may not be able to purchase some essential items for days or even weeks. Have an emergency first aid kit in your trunk or go bag. Fill your gas tank and withdraw cash. Fill your bathtub with water.
- Make sure you have a way to contact family if your landline is not working. Keep your cell phone charged. Email your family to let them know your plans before you leave. You may not have electricity for a few days.
- If you evacuate, leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather, know where you will stay, and review the latest CDC guidelines for public shelters before you head out.
- Take your pets with you but understand that only service animals may be allowed in public shelters.
Prepare Your Home and Help Your Neighbors
- Make sure to clear storm drains and gutters, and bring in outside furniture.
- Check with neighbors, seniors, or those who may need additional help when making your plans.
- Do not use generators near open windows or vinyl windows, and ensure carbon monoxide detectors are working.
Visit ready.gov/hurricanes to learn more about how to get ready for hurricanes and how to stay safe during a storm.
For additional related information, see the Storm Preparedness Guidelines- 2021.
STAY SAFE!