Shore Up Your Ability to Withstand a Hurricane

We're still in hurricane season here on the East Coast. Here are some tips from Navy Installation Command's Ready Navy Program on how to prepare for a coming storm.

Advance notice alone is not enough to protect your family and property during hurricane season. You increase your chances through active preparation, being and staying informed, making a plan, and building an emergency supply kit.

These steps are applicable whether you are preparing for a hurricane, typhoon, or any hazard. They save lives, property, and time when seconds count in a mandated evacuation and when sheltering at home.

The terms "hurricane" and "typhoon" are regionally specific names for a strong "tropical cyclone." These low-pressure systems, which originate in the tropics, bring violent winds, torrential rains, storm surges, and flooding.

A hurricane is a tropical cyclone in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Northeast Pacific Ocean, east of the dateline, or the South Pacific Ocean east of 160E. The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1 to November 30, with the peak season from mid-August to late October. 

Stay Informed

The following are some resources to find tips and information to be and stay informed before, during, and after a hurricane/typhoon.

• Ready Navy-http://www.ready.navy.mil/
• NAF Atsugi, Japan's List of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): http://www.cni.navy.mil/navycni/groups/public/documents/document/cnicp_a229419.pdf.
• NOAA's National Hurricane Center: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/
• Department of Homeland Security (Ready.gov) & FEMA: www.ready.gov/hurricanes
• Local TV and radio stations

Make a Plan

Every member of the family should understand what to do, where to go, how to communicate with each other, and what to take if a hurricane is predicted in your area. Be sure to learn and include community evacuation routes and an out-of-town contact everyone can call if separated. Plan how you will protect your property and home, giving yourself plenty of time to finish before the storm.

Build an Emergency Supply Kit

Make a portable kit with enough water, non-perishable food, medicine, and supplies for every family member to survive at least three days. Include a battery or crank powered all-weather radio, extra batteries, and cash in case power goes out.

Last, but not least, follow the direction of emergency management and local authorities. Never ignore an evacuation order. If told to evacuate, do it immediately and take only essential items and your emergency kit. Disconnect all appliances, and turn off gas, electricity, and water.

For more information on how to prepare for a hurricane/typhoon, visit http://www.ready.navy.mil/BeInformed/NaturalHazards/Hurricane/index.htm.