Hurricane Disaster Preparedness

Before a Hurricane

• Prepare an emergency kit and make a family communications plan
• Know your surroundings, the elevation level of your property, and whether the land is prone to flood
• Identify levees and dams that may pose a hazard
• Learn evacuation routes
• If in a high-rise building, be prepared to take shelter on or below the 10th floor

Secure Your Property

• Cover all your home’s windows
• Install straps to fasten your roof to the framing structure
• Keep trees and shrubs around your home manicured
• Clean debris from rain gutters and downspouts
• Reinforce garage doors to avoid structural damage from wind
• Plan storage for outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, etc.
• Predetermine how to secure any boats
• Install a generator
• Consider building a safe room

Another Useful Link

Hurricanes cause heavy rains that can result in extensive flood damage in coastal and inland areas. Everyone is at risk and should consider flood insurance protection. Flood insurance is the only way to financially protect your property or business from flood damage.

To learn more about your flooding risk and how to protect yourself and your business, visit the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (NFIP) website www.floodsmart.gov, or call 1-800-427-2419.