Are You Ready for Hurricane Season?

25 May 2010

The 2010 Hurricane Season will start on June 1 and end on November 30. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an “above average” season of 15 named storms and 8 major hurricanes. Are you ready?
 
The following few steps will help you in getting prepared:
 
• Know your home’s vulnerability to storm surge, flooding and wind.
• Develop an emergency plan.
• Locate a safe room in your home.
• Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet.
• Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact.
• Check your insurance coverage.
• Prepare a family disaster kit.
• Be sure to have a NOAA weather radio on hand (replace batteries every six months).
• Make plans for your pets if you need to evacuate.
• Practice and maintain your plan.

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit (suggested by FEMA)

• Three-day supply of non-perishable food.
• Three-day supply of water – one gallon of water per person, per day.
• Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• First aid kit and manual.
• Sanitation and hygiene items.
• Matches and waterproof container.
• Whistle.
• Extra clothing.
• Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener.
• Photocopies of credit and identification cards.
• Cash and coins.
• Special needs items, such as prescription medication, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries.
• Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers.
• Copies of your insurance policies.
• Other items to meet your unique family needs.
 
Lutheran Services Florida offers guides and materials for disaster preparedness as well as training for disaster response volunteers. For more information on disaster preparedness and response, contact Danielle Kearney by calling 813-676-9513 or 1-800-651-1853 or by emailing dkearney@lsfnet.org.

For more information on Getting Help, Giving Help, and Being Prepared, or to download our 2010 Hurricane Season Bulletin Insert, visit our Hurricane Resource Page.
 

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