As Hurricane Hermine is set to make landfall with Hampton Roads on Saturday morning, here are some tips to keep in mind for before, during and after the storm hits!
Before the Hurricane
- Check your flood insurance policy with your insurance company!
- Put together a disaster supply kit, including a flashlight, batteries, shoes, blankets, cash, first aid supplies, and copies of your critical information if you need to evacuate. Have your car fueled and ready with supplies.
- If you have pets, prepare an emergency supply kit for them. It is a good idea to pack a week’s supply of food, water and other provisions. Make sure to have a pet carrier, their leash, collar and immunization records nearby.
- Secure loose rain gutters and downspouts and clear any clogged areas to prevent water damage to your property
- Purchase a portable generator or install a generator for use during power outages. Remember to keep generators outside, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors and protected from moisture!
- Subscribe to your community’s text or email alerting systems for emergency notifications.
- Know where to go if you are ordered to evacuate. Check the local hurricane evacuation route(s) and have a plan in mind for where you can stay.
- If you do not live in an area that has been advised to evacuate and you are going to stay in your home, make sure to have adequate supplies in case you lose power and water for several days
During the Hurricane
- Turn on your TV/radio, or check your city/county website in order to get the latest weather updates and emergency instructions.
- Stay in side and stay away from windows, glass doors and skylights. Flying glass from broken windows could injure you!
- Turn your refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and open only when necessary. This way, if you lose power, your food will last longer.
- If flooding threatens your home, immediately turn off electricity at the main breaker.
After the Hurricane
- If there is any damage to your property, take photographs in order to assist in filing an insurance claim.
- To prevent further damage to your property, do what you can! Things such as putting a tarp on a damaged roof is a good idea because insurance may not cover additional damage that occurs after the storm.
- If you have left home, return only when authorities say it is safe!
- Avoid flood water as it may be electrically charged from downed power lines and could be dangerous
- Check in with your friends and family to let them know you are safe!