Tips for Hurricane Preparedness

If you live in an area that has the potential of being affected by a hurricane, the key to remaining safe is early planning.

Before the storm strikes --

• Stock up on non-perishable food, medicine, baby supplies and pet food.
• Purchase bottled water; 1 gallon of water per person per day.
• Check emergency equipment (flashlights, battery-operated radios, extension cords, emergency generators, etc.) and purchase extra batteries.
• Consider the installation of shutters over windows and doors. Depending on the design of your home, plywood works well, but stock up early.
• Monitor official weather bulletins.
• Keep extra cash on hand, as automatic teller machines or banks don't operate without power.
• Review evacuation routes.
• Arrange for safe sheltering for your pet if you must evacuate. Public shelters don't accept pets.
• Keep your vehicle's fuel tank full.
• Move yard items inside, such as patio furniture.
• Read more tips on hurricanes, and learn about flash floods.

Electric Tips During Storms

• If a family member uses life-sustaining medical equipment, develop an emergency plan for generating power or plan to relocate.
• Turn off and unplug the electrical appliances and equipment such as TVs and computers.
• Turn refrigerators and freezers to their coldest settings to keep food fresh as long as possible.
• Watch for downed power lines. Stay back and consider all lines energized. If possible, call Dominion at 1-888-667-3000. (Read more tips about downed wires and post-storm safety.)
• If you must reset circuit breakers, wear dry, rubber soled shoes and stand on something dry such as wood or furniture.
• Reset the breaker switches with one hand using a dry wooden tool. Don't touch the metal breaker box or other grounded objects.
• If the breakers cannot be reset, call a licensed electrician, as there may be a short-circuit in the electrical system.

Portable Generator Safety Tips

• Use only in a well-ventilated area. Don't run it in your garage.
• Use a heavy duty, grounded extension cord when plugging appliances into the generator.
• Do not connect your power generator to your home's main fuse box or circuit panel.
• Don't exceed the generator's recommended wattage.

For more information: American Red Cross