DURING THE STORM
Stay indoors, away from windows, skylights and glass doors, until the storm has officially passed. Be careful; it might appear the storm is over, but you may actually be in the eye of the hurricane. It may seem calm, but the weather could deteriorate quickly. The calm may only last 10-20 minutes.
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Do not use candles or kerosene lamps.
Find a safe-room in your home, usually an interior, windowless, reinforced room such as a closet or bathroom on the lower floor.
Stay in your safe-room even if you hear breaking glass. Do not expose yourself to the hurricane’s winds.
If your house starts to break apart, cover yourself with a mattress and pillows. If your safe-room has a bathtub, get in the tub under a mattress.
Use the phone for urgent calls only. Don’t use the phone if you hear thunder.
If you are in a very tall building, avoid the top floors as wind speeds are stronger the higher you go. Go to a safe-room. If flooding threatens your home, turn off electricity at the main breaker.
If you lose power, turn off major appliances, such as the air conditioner and water heater to reduce damage from surge when power is restored.
AFTER THE STORM
Be patient. It may take awhile for emergency crews to reach your neighborhood. Restoring utilities could take several weeks. Use extreme caution. There may be dangerous situations all around you.
If your house is damaged, do not return until it has been officially inspected.
Find the fire extinguisher before turning on the power.
Avoid all downed power lines and water puddles.
Report downed or sparking power lines, broken gas lines and water mains.
Always supervise children.
Avoid piling debris near power poles. This may hinder repairs. Avoid driving because of debris and road blockage.
Open windows and doors to ventilate your home.
If flooding has occurred, have an inspection before turning on the breaker.
Let your out-of-town emergency contact know you are alright.
Have valid ID. It may be required to reenter your neighborhood.
Don’t sightsee, especially at night.