What to do in case of a hurricane according to experts

The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season is about to begin. The good news is you still have some time left to review some safety issues at home that may need preventive actions on your side.  

 

For this post we have listed what the experts agree are the best tips on what to do if a storm or hurricane is headed towards land. Please keep in mind that knowing what to do once the hurricane is already formed and moving is not enough. Taking the necessary precautions before, during and after the impact of a cyclone is key.  

 

What to do before a hurricane hits?  

It may seem obvious, but the first step is to stay calm. Many of the mistakes made when preparing for a hurricane happen when you lose control over your own fears. The best way to avoid panic is to just go through a detailed checklist made beforehand with all the aspects that you have to keep in mind.  

 

Some of the things you need to do before a hurricane are:  

 

Write down the local emergency phone numbers and keep them in a safe place  

Remember that the electricity service is interrupted during hurricanes, so it will be better to have those important phone numbers written down, just in case. The refrigerator door is ideal to have them and keep them in sight.  

 

Always have an emergency kit ready 

A few cans of food, some bottles of water, basic personal hygiene items, and a first aid kit with common over the counter meds will do the trick.  

 

Prepare a space for your pets  

Don’t forget to include the furry members of the family in your plan. Designate a place in your home where your pets can stay during a hurricane. Also, remember to buy food and water for their own emergency kit.  

 

Protect your home with hurricane shutters  

Installing a hurricane protection system in advance will give you peace of mind. Your home will be protected in a matter of seconds with the flick of a switch, the push of a button or an action as simple as pulling a curtain.  

What to do during a hurricane  

This is the most critical moment of all. As the storm passes through your city, you'll hear noises that are likely to put your nerves on edge. It’s totally normal. As long as your windows and doors are protected, there is nothing to worry about. Keep your mind busy playing board games with your family, chatting about anything or reading random articles in magazines.  

 

During the storm, the best things to do are:  

 

1. 1.Ration food and water supplies  
2. 2.Save the battery of cell phones, laptops and emergency flashlights  
3. 3. Keep some candles and a lighter on hand  
4. 4. Store your important documents in airtight plastic bags  
5. 5. Monitor the emergency communication system  

 

What to do after a hurricane?  

Be careful, the immediate danger of the storm has ended, but it is not all over yet. In the first few hours after a hurricane has passed through an area, it is hard to tell how much damage has been caused. Quite often people go out to the streets ignoring the dangers they may face outside.  

 

Watch out for downed trees and power lines. Also, beware of thieves or burglars who may take advantage of the power outage. The best thing to do is to be patient and cautious. Leave the house during the day and only for what is strictly necessary. Also, keep rationing the food, water and medications you have at home. Sometimes it may take up to three weeks for suppliers to restore all services back to normal.  

 

If you want more information on what to do in case of a hurricane, make sure to read other recent posts on our blog. You will find more useful tips on how to keep yourself and your family safe from cyclones.