It’s hurricane season! Keep yourself and loved ones safe by adhering to the following safety tips.
FACT: In the Raleigh, NC area, the hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30.
Hurricanes can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. Most hurricanes are active during the month of September. Prepare yourself by knowing your area’s risk of hurricanes.
#1 – Make a Plan
Discuss the following questions with your household to start your emergency plan:
- How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
- Sign up for emergency alerts, or keep an ear out for emergency notifications via radio/tv.
- What is our shelter plan?
- Consider the hazard first, and choose a place in your home or other building that is safe from that hazard. This could include staying with friends/family, staying at a hotel, or seeking refuge at a mass care facility.
- What is our evacuation route?
- You may have a couple of days or a couple of hours to evacuate, which is why it is vital to plan ahead. Know how and when you will leave and where you will go. Have a “go-bag” packed that you can easily carry on foot, and make sure you keep the gas tank in your car topped off.
- What is my family/household communication plan?
#2 – Consider the Specific Needs of Your Household
Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in your immediate household and network can help with things such as: child/pet care, medical supplies, etc. Keep in mind the following factors:
- Different ages of members within your household
- Responsibilities for assisting others
- Locations frequented
- Dietary needs
- Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment
- Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment
- Languages spoken
- Cultural and religious considerations
- Pets or service animals
- Households with school-aged children
#3 – Fill Out a Family Emergency Plan
Download and fill out a family emergency plan, or use the following as a guide to create your own. Be sure to select a “meeting place” away from home or in the event that you become separated.
#4 – Prepare a Home Emergency Kit
Include items such as food, water and medical supplies to last for at least three days for each family member. Be sure to check medicines to make sure they haven’t expired.
Build your emergency kit here.
#5 – Strengthen Your Home
There are tons of things you can do around your home to protect it from the strong winds that often accompany hurricanes. Tips include:
- Keep trees trimmed.
- Collect loose outdoor items.
- Make sure all doors are properly secured on your property.
- Find a safe location to park your vehicle if you don’t have a garage.
Sources:
WakeMed Closings & Delays
Stay up-to-date on the latest closings and delays with WakeMed by checking our website here.
