Emergency preparedness is an essential part of life, and although many people only get ready for a crisis when disaster is set to come their way, it’s recommended to always be prepared. Having an emergency kit with all the basic necessities, like water, tissues, a flashlight, batteries, non-perishable food items, a first-aid kit, a can opener, and more, or knowing what to do when disaster strikes, essential hurricane preparedness tips are crucial, no matter where you live.
Every year during hurricane season, from June 1st through November 30th, homes and cities across the Eastern seaboard are susceptible to damaging winds, rains, and everything else these storms bring. NOAA predicted that the 2024 hurricane season would be more active than usual, and they were correct. There were 18 named storms in the Atlantic Basin—five of which were major hurricanes with winds greater than 111 mph. (Check out How to Tell the Difference Between a Hurricane and a Tornado.)
To create this list of essential hurricane preparedness tips everyone should know, 24/7 Tempo consulted numerous sources, including the National Weather Service, the American Red Cross, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA.) We also reviewed Reddit threads and other discussion boards for some of the best preparation tips.
Here are essential hurricane preparedness tips everyone should know.
Create an Evacuation Plan
If you have family or friends in an area that won’t be affected by the storm, contact them ahead of time and make plans to stay with them if evacuation is necessary. The Department of Transportation near you will also be able to provide information on evacuation routes in your area.
Find an Emergency Shelter Near You
If you have pets, it’s important to have a plan for them as well. Not all emergency shelters allow pets, so you’ll want to have a plan for what to do with your furry friends if you have to take your family to an emergency shelter.
Prepare an Emergency Kit
What you put in your kit may depend on your location and situation. Some examples of things to include are flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies. The National Weather Service has a full list of what to include on its website.
Stock Up On Supplies
You might also want to buy bottled water and non-perishable snacks for when you’re waiting out the storm. Additionally, make sure you fill your gas tank ahead of time to avoid long lines at the gas station before a storm.
Familiarize Yourself with Your Zone
Also, the evacuation zones are typically based on which areas are most likely to be affected by the storm. Understanding your zone can help identify the level of risk in your area and how likely you are to get flooding and storm surges near your home.
Review Your Insurance Documents
This is vital if you’re a homeowner. There are certain aspects of your insurance that you’ll want to check, such as your deductible and what your policy limit is. Even if you’re not a homeowner, you may want to check up on your renter’s and car insurance.
Document Your Assets and Property
If you need to apply for aid due to a natural disaster, having an inventory will expedite the process and help you get the aid you need. Take pictures of any assets you have, including your property if you’re a homeowner.
Find a Reliable News Source
If possible, find one that focuses on sharing practical information instead of spreading unnecessary fear. Then you’ll know exactly what to do and when to act if a hurricane is headed towards your area.
Set Up Emergency Alerts
You can also sign up for alerts directly through the National Weather Service or through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, also known as FEMA. This will allow you to stay on top of any updates while you determine what to do to keep your family safe.
Secure Your Home
Preparation should also include boarding up your windows to prevent them from breaking and using sandbags to prevent any water from getting into your home if there is flooding. (To learn more about the weather, check out The Average Summer Temperature Every Decade Since 1895.)