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Top 10 Hurricane Survival Tips
The earth is experiencing global shifts that are affect our climate daily. With recent hurricanes such as Gustav and Hanna threatening shore lines we might soon see hurricanes that trump the impact of Rita (in Florida) and Katrina (in Louisiana). One cannot deny the catastrophic potentials of these type of storms.
What Is A Hurricane?
According to the description from Mega Disasters, “Hurricane is the name applied to migratory tropical cyclones that originate over oceans in certain regions near the equator, and particularly to those arising in the West Indian region, including the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane-type cyclones in the western Pacific are known as typhoons.” The intensity of Hurricanes is measured by, “The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale,” created in the 1970s by the American engineer Herbert S. Saffir (1917- ) and Robert H. Simpson (1912- ), a former director of the National Hurricane Center (NHC).
What To Do When Hurricane Is Near
- 1. Know the intensity of the storm, which is measured by the NHC as the estimate of potential property damage and flooding along the coast after a hurricane landfall. The mildest hurricane, Category 1, has winds of at least 120 km/hr (74 mph); The strongest (and rarest), Category 5, has winds that exceed 250 km/hr (155 mph).
- 2. Determine the level of risk for hurricane impact to your area, than make plans to evacuate if and when the order is given, and know where to go.
- 3. Find out shelter and evacuation center rules, and decide on the items to take with you. Alcoholic beverages, drugs, weapons and smoking is not permitted in public shelters/evacuation centers. Find out about pets.
- 4. Prepare a 72 hour Emergency Kit for each family member including pets.
- 5. Check batteries, replace water, packaged food, and Generator.
- 6. If a hurricane watch is posted for your area, it only means there is a possibility a hurricane will reach your area, and you should prepare as if it were coming. A hurricane warning however means it is coming and you should seek shelter immediately. REMEMBER: Hurricane watches give 36 hours to prepare, and hurricane warnings give 24 hours to prepare.
- 7. Know and post the TV and radio stations that broadcast official emergency and weather information.
- 8. Cover doors and windows with heavy plywood and secure roof trusses. Since houses are designed as closed systems, shutting them tight is how they best withstand wind pressure. If flying debris busts a window or fierce winds kick in a door, the winds rushing inside will push the roof, trying to lift it, while the winds on the outside will create a suction.
- 9. People with special needs should check with their home health care agencies and also register with the Emergency Management Office in their county.
- 10. Wait for the official “all clear” to be issued from the emergency management authorities before returning home. Upon return, be sure you have ID to verify your home address. This is not a time for “sight-seeing” as it may impede emergency personnel. Beware of hazards such as downed lines, gas leaks, and sharp objects.
Posted by Saba on 09/04 at 04:45 PM
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