How to prepare before a hurricane
Prior preparation is crucial To ensure hurricane safety, here are the essential steps to follow:
Develop an emergency plan
- Identify evacuation routes: Know the safe zones and shelters available in your area. If you live in a mobile home or near the coast, you may need to evacuate more quickly.
- Save emergency numbers: Write down the contacts for emergency services, hospitals and close relatives.
- Organize a meeting point: In case of separation, it is useful to have a planned place to meet your loved ones.
Prepare an emergency supplies kit
Hurricanes can cause power and water outages, so having enough supplies is essential. Be sure to include:
- Drinking water for at least three days.
- Non-perishable foods, such as canned goods and energy bars.
- Essential medications and first aid kit.
- Flashlights with spare batteries.
- Battery-powered radio to follow weather updates.
- Appropriate and waterproof clothing.
- Important documents protected in airtight bags.
Preparing your home and vehicle
- Car condition review: Fill your gas tank and have an emergency kit ready in case you need to evacuate.
- Secure windows and doors: Use shutters or cover openings with sturdy wood.
- Remove loose objects from outside: Store garden furniture, bicycles and any other items that may be blown away by the wind.
- Safekeeping of important documents: Documents such as IDs, passports and deeds should be stored in a safe and easily accessible place.
How to act during a hurricane
If you need to evacuate
- Follow the routes recommended by emergency services and avoid flooded roads.
- If possible, travel in a group for greater safety.
- Carry only the essentials: documents, medications, emergency kit and appropriate clothing.
- Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas; the water can be deeper than it appears and can easily sweep away vehicles.
If you stay at home
- Stay away from windows and glass doors.
- Locate yourself in a inside room without windows, preferably on the ground floor of the house.
- Use the radio to receive emergency updates and alerts.
- Avoid using candles to reduce fire hazards and use battery-powered flashlights instead.
- Do not go outside until authorities confirm that the storm has completely passed.
Safety measures after the hurricane
Return home safely
- Wait for official authorization before returning home.
- If your home has suffered significant damage, do not enter until an expert assesses the structure.
- Avoid contact with downed power lines and notify the authorities.
- Check the condition of the food and discard any that has been in contact with contaminated water.
Prevention of subsequent dangers
- Beware of carbon monoxide: If you use generators, make sure you do so in ventilated spaces.
- Avoid stagnant water: It may be contaminated and pose a health risk.
- Clear debris with caution: Wear gloves and appropriate clothing to avoid cuts or injuries.
