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Before a hurricane threat exists it's time to make sure that you have all your supplies. You will want to obtain supplies such as boards and shutters for you home. You will also want to trim trees and shrubs to prevent them from doing damage as the wind blows through. If you are planning on waiting it out in your home, make sure that you are not in danger of being caught in a flood. If you live in a mobile home or a boat, make plans to evacuate. Don't wait to make arrangements after the watch becomes a warning. Make plans beforehand.
Once a watch has been issued, the best thing to do is make sure you are prepared in the event that the watch becomes a warning. Make sure you fill the gas tank on your car, check batteries in flashlights and radios, and make sure you have extra batteries on hand. Secure all doors and windows. Close shutters or board up the windows. Make sure any outdoor furniture and fixtures are brought in to prevent them from doing damage. Make arrangements to have your pets cared for because most emergency shelters will not allow pets. If you do plan on staying home, make sure you have extra supplies on hand such as food, clean drinking water, prescription drugs, and any other necessity. If you must evacuate, bring extra clothes and blankets, personal hygiene items bottles water and non-perishable food items. Make sure to shut off all utilities including water. Keep important documents in waterproof containers.
During the storm, Stay away from windows and doors and seek refuge in an interior room with no windows. Make sure that you keep on the alert for additional storm warnings. Hurricanes are known to spawn tornadoes so be prepared to take cover if one should strike. While the storm is in progress avoid using electrical appliances. Stay off the telephone. All pets should be secure in carriers. The storm will be a frightening experience for them as well, and they could injure themselves or even you if the animal panics.
Do not light candles or lanterns. They could get blown over causing a fire. Stay in your shelter until the all clear has been given. The eye of the storm passing over could make you think the storm is over when the worst is still yet to come. Only use this calm in an extreme emergency to make critical repairs. Never go out during the storm. The winds can send flying debris right into you causing injury and even death.
Only after an official "all clear" has been issued is it safe to come out. After the storm clears, and you come out, beware of down power lines and gas leaks. Stay away from heavily damaged areas. Listen to your radio for instructions.
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