Be Prepared & Have a Plan

Be Prepared


  • Have a plan for you and your family.
  • Know the hurricane risks in your area - learn the storm surge history and elevation of your area.
  • Learn about local sheltering plans, including the location of official shelters.
  • Ensure that enough non-perishable food and water supplies are on hand.
  • Have at least a one-week supply of medications on hand.
  • Obtain and store materials, such as plywood, necessary to properly secure your home.
  • Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
  • Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed of dead wood.
  • Review your insurance policy.
  • Determine where to move your boat in an emergency.
  • Make plans noon what to do with your pets should you be required to evacuate your residence.
  • Public health regulations do not allow pets in public shelters, nor do most hotels/motels allow them.
  • Individuals with special needs or others requiring more information should contact their County Emergency Management Office.

Have a Plan


  • Contact your local National Weather Service office or Emergency Management office to learn what types of disasters could occur and how you should respond.
  • Learn the warning signals and evacuation plans of your community.
  • Know your community's sheltering plans.
  • Know the Emergency Alert System radio and television stations in your area that will carry official information. Additionally, monitor National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio broadcasts, if possible.
  • Discuss with family members what they should do in the event of a disaster, such as a hurricane or severe storm.
    • Pick two places to meet:
      • A spot outside your home for an emergency, such as a fire
      • A place away from your neighborhood in case you cannot return home.
  • Designate an out-of-area friend or relative whom separated family members should call to report their whereabouts. Make certain all family members have the phone number.
  • Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
  • Check your home and property for potential hazards to see what actions need to be taken to ensure your safety and to protect your belongings.
  • Check your insurance coverage. Flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance.
  • Inventory household items with photographs.
  • Install safety features in your residence such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
  • Know how and when to turn off water, gas and electricity in your home.
  • Determine if your family has any special needs and develop a plan for meeting those needs.
    • For example: If you have a family member on a life-support system, does your electric utility know about it?
  • Post emergency telephone numbers by phones.
  • Teach all family members, including children, how and when to call 911 or your local emergency medical services (EMS) phone number.