How to Stay Safe After A Hurricane

The hurricane is finally over, and you're safe! But the danger hasn't passed; it may have just begun. There are many dangers you need to be aware of that can lurk in the aftermath of a hurricane. Be aware and be safe.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Stay in your safe room until the hurricane has passed; do not be fooled by the calm eye of the storm. Listen to the local news for weather reports and local hazards before you leave the safe room.
2. Walk through the interior of your home with a flashlight. Look for structural damage; check the ceilings for roof damage, check windows and doors and check room additions.
3. Turn off the main power breaker in the breaker box to protect your home from power surges when the power is restored. Turn off the gas supply to your home until the supply can be checked. Turn off the water main to your house to avoid any leaks or flooding issues when the water is restored.
4. Pick up any broken glass or debris that is inside your home. These can present safety hazards from cuts or falls. Use gloves when handling any debris, indoors or out.
5. Examine the door before venturing outdoors as there may be structural damage that makes it unsafe to use. Check to see what is beyond the door before you open it. There may be branches or debris piled up, there may be floodwater rising or downed power lines just beyond the door.
6. Wear appropriate clothing when venturing outdoors, such as a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, gloves and heavy-soled shoes or boots.
7. Check the immediate environment for hazards; downed electric or telephone lines, broken gas, water or sewer lines. Look for broken telephone poles, downed or leaning trees, or dangling power lines.
8. Examine the exterior of your home carefully and make note of what needs immediate repair. A hole in the roof needs to be covered to prevent further damage. Broken windows need to be boarded shut to prevent broken glass from falling, or animals trying to enter your home.
9. Repair only those things that must be repaired because your insurance company will send a claims representative to check the damage to your home for insurance claims.

Tips & Warnings

• Never touch an electrical or telephone line to try to move it.
• Look for downed electrical lines that may be hidden under trees or under water.
• Watch for wild creatures that are trying to escape, especially snakes, alligators and fire ants.
• Never pick up any debris without heavy-duty gloves.
• Look for sharp objects that can cause injuries, such as protruding nails and rough metal.

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