.2. Keep your family safe by properly preparing for a hurricane.

Keep your family safe when a hurricane threatens. The most important thing you can do is follow emergency management instructions for your area and always remember that protecting your possessions is important, but its most important to get yourself and your family to safe shelter before the storm hits.

Close | Open .Create and discuss an evacuation plan with your family Know what your local emergency management or civil defense office recommends for your community. Pay close attention to emergency information and instructions on your radio or television. Map your evacuation route ahead of time and have it on hand. Let family and friends know in advance where you plan to go if you have to evacuate. Plan a mutual contact person for all family members to contact in case you are separated. If your children are in school, find out where they will be sent if an evacuation order is announced. Consider early evacuation if you have a disability or special medical needs. Make prior medical arrangements if you require electricity-dependant medical equipment. Prepare identification, medications, medical equipment and written instructions regarding your care. Make arrangements for your pets as most shelters will not accept them. If you do evacuate... turn off water, gas and electricity, and be sure to lock your windows and doors. .Prepare your structure to minimize damages ahead of time Pick up all loose items from your yard and securely tie down any that must remain. Secure any loose siding and roofing. Board up or use masking tape to form "X" shaped patterns on the inside of your windows to minimize flying glass. Trim loose or dead branches from trees in your yard. Lower tv and radio antennas when possible. Unplug non-essential appliances and electronics to prevent "brown downs" or surges from damaging them. Place valuable belongings on higher surfaces to prevent possible flooding from damaging them. .Assemble a basic survival kit Bandages & band aids Antiseptic Iodine Adhesive tape Aspirin or acetaminophen Scissors Antibacterial soap Safety pins Thermometer Water purification tablets or non-scented bleach. Prescription medications Glow sticks Insect repellent .Compile items your family will need Batteries Fill your car's gas tank and all gas cans as pumps can't operate without power. Have cash on-hand as ATM's and credit card machines can't operate without power. Gas powered, electric generator and long extension chord (NEVER use indoors!) Enough non-perishable food to last at least two weeks per person. At least one gallon of drinking water per person, per day to last at least two weeks. Grill including enough charcoal or propane for at least two weeks. One flashlight per family member. Battery powered, portable radio. Ice or ice packs. Two coolers. One to hold your food and another strictly for storing ice. Sleeping gear including pillows, blankets, sleeping bags, etc. Extra clothing and undergarments to accommodate all temperatures. Tarps, garbage bags and zip-locks for storage and protection from the elements. Plastic utensils and cups. Paper towels and napkins. Non-electric can opener. Candles and matches. Washcloths and towels for each person. Soap Toothbrushes and toothpaste. Deodorant Shaving kit Sanitary napkins Contact lenses solution Books, cards and board games. All necessary baby supplies. .Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage Review your insurance policy to understand exactly what is covered and how much your deductibles are. Contact your provider if you have any questions concerning your current coverage. Use a video recorder or camera to take a complete inventory of your property before the storm. Store receipts and policy information in a safe deposit box and/or with a relative outside of your local area. Update policy before a possible disaster as most insurance companies will not issue new policies once a disaster is broadcast over the radio. Contact ARS immediately if you suffer any damages!