American Red Cross issues safety tips for Hurricane Preparedness Week

Posted May 9, 2019

In light of National Hurricane Preparedness Week, observed May 5-11, 2019, the American Red Cross urges people to get ready for hurricane season, as the prime time for these powerful storms is just around the corner. The Agency notes that early predictions say the U.S. could see between 12 and 14 named storms with up to four major hurricanes.

To encourage preparedness, the Red Cross has issued the following safety tips:

• Determine your risk. While hurricanes cause problems for coastal areas, they also can cause damage hundreds of miles inland.
• Create an evacuation plan and practice it so household members know what to do in the event of an emergency. Make plans for pets if applicable.
• Prepare an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant if applicable, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area, and emergency contact information.
• Learn about your community’s hurricane response plan and know the routes to local shelters.
• Protect windows with permanent shutters or one-half inch marine plywood.
• Download the American Red Cross Emergency App for guidance on what to do before, during, and after different emergencies or disasters.

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