by A. Saafir

Created on: June 17, 2010

Hurricanes are known as “the greatest storms on Earth”. They can create tremendous amounts of damage to towns and cities as well as cause the loss of human life. It is important to be prepared ahead of time, especially when living in areas traditionally hit hardest by hurricanes. Planning ahead may mean evacuating an area before an impending hurricane ever arrives. However, as Hurricane Katrina, in 2005, reminded the world, everyone is not always able to evacuate even when it is suggested by local authorities. This article looks at some of the best practices for surviving a hurricane.

Planning Ahead for the Possibility of a Hurricane

Individuals and families should sit down and map out a specific hurricane plan that includes types of hazards to the particular home or structure, location of safe rooms or areas in the home, mapped out escape routes and meeting places for family members, a pet plan, and posting emergency numbers in the home. A survival kit that includes important items like water, non-perishable food and emergency items like flashlights and batteries, toiletries, and seasonal clothing, etc. is another must have when planning ahead for the possibility of a hurricane. Proper planning can help to save lives.

What to Do During an Actual Hurricane

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Federal Emergency Management Act (FEMA)have websites that offer excellent tips for increasing one’s chances of surviving through a hurricane.

FEMA points out some specific situations where evacuation is really the best possible option. They are as follows: living in a mobile home or a high-rise building, living along the coastal floodplain or river, or if one feels that they are in imminent danger.

If it is not possible to evacuate an area being hit by a hurricane or if evacuation has not even been suggested by local authorities there are some specific things that need to be done:

- Stay indoors and away from glass windows and doors. Keep window coverings closed. It is also very important to close all the doors inside the home and secure and brace any doors leading outdoors.

- Secure the home by closing storm shutters and securing outdoor objects like bicycles, patio furniture, gardening tools, etc., or bringing them into the house. Turn off utilities to decrease the likelihood of electric shock in the case of flooding. FEMA also suggests that propane tanks should be turned off and land-line phones should be off limits

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