By the time a hurricane watch is issued for your area, options for dealing with the storm will be limited to two fundamental choices - evacuation (which is the safest plan) or weathering the storm at home.

A hurricane warning means that hurricane conditions are expected in 24 hours or less. Use these guidelines for last-minute preparations.

If you evacuate:

• Vehicle, travel supplies, and home preparations should already be complete. If they aren't, don't spend too much time trying to catch up. It is more important to evacuate your family to safety, while there's still time.

• Secure your home and property to protect it from hurricane-related damage. That means boarding windows, turning off power, etc.

• Check and secure mobile home tiedowns and evacuate immediately.

• Let family, friends, and neighbors know where you will be and how you can be reached.

• Continue monitoring local news and weather updates.

• Leave the area as soon as possible to help minimize traffic delays along evacuation routes.

• Once you arrive at your destination outside the risk area, call loved ones to let them know you've arrived safely.

If you must stay home:

• Your advanced preparations should already be complete. If they aren't, don't spend too much time trying to catch up.  It is more important to focus on whatever steps are necessary to ensure your family's safety during the storm.

• Secure your home and property to protect it from hurricane-related damage. That means boarding windows, etc.

• Make sure all family members and pets are safely indoors and that they stay there until the danger has passed.

• Make sure your vehicle is parked in the safest place possible and that you have a full tank of gas.  But, DO NOT plan on going anywhere until after the storm has passed and local officials have given the go-ahead for safe travel.

• Continue monitoring local news and weather updates.

• Keep in touch with family and friends as best you can during the storm to let them know you are ok.

Close Window