Hurricane Preparation

Hurricane preparedness is the actions and planning taken before a hurricane, tropical storm, cyclone, or tsunami strikes to avoid damage and injury from the storm. Hurricane preparedness may involve preparations made by individuals, families, cities, states, and governments or other organizations. Hurricane preparation is very important, and if done correctly can save a lot of peoples lives. There are many things people and organizations can do to protect themselves from harm during a storm.

The most important decision in individual hurricane preparedness is determining if and when to evacuate an area that will be affected by a storm. Evacuation plans should be thorough and communicated clearly to everyone involved. It is very important that the entire family or group be included in hurricane preparation. If there is a place to evacuate, it is crucial that close friends and family be informed of the plan as well. This will work just in case people are unable to find individuals after the storm has passed. If evacuation is not possible or necessary, other forms of hurricane preparation include storing supplies, securing a home against extreme winds and rain, and making plans with family and friends prior to the storms rainfall..
Hurricane preparedness kits should include bottled water, canned food, first aid kits, prescription medications, waterproof flashlights and radios, a whistle or other sound-signaling device, identification and medical cards, any necessary medical records, waterproof bags or portable waterproof containers, and other supplies helpful in a survival situation.

Hurricane Preparedness also may include planned shelter routes to ensure safety. Evacuation to hurricane shelters is an option that should be used as a last resort. Shelter space is first come first serve and only intended to preserve human life. Buildings designated as shelters are built to hold a certain number of people at a time. Shelters are expected to protect occupants from wind and water only. Shelters should be considered a major part of hurricane preparation.
Hurricane preparation policies make buildings and other infrastructure more resistant to the effects of tropical cyclones. All other buildings, whether residential or commercial, are vulnerable to damage from storms. Additionally, the internal contents of these buildings can be damaged as result of exposure to water if the building is breached, as a result of the strong winds.
Hurricane preparedness is more important in certain areas. Any area off a coast is more likely to be hit by hurricanes or storms during hurricane season. Florida is a state that get hit hard every hurricane season, due to their location. Hurricane preparation is second nature to many of the residence in the Florida cities, and towns. Other regions affected by hurricanes include, New England, Texas, California, Virginia, etc…Government agencies in these areas have evacuation routes for the citizens to follow, as well as protective levy’s to prevent flooding. Hurricane preparation may seen like another preventative tactic that takes up to much time and thought. Although it may be true that preventative methods such as these are extremely cautious, these same measures will save lives when they are needed most.