Aug
26
Tips for Staying Safe During Hurricane Irene
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With Hurricane Irene headed for Maine late this weekend, we want to help keep you and your family safe with these hurricane preparedness tips.
You & Your Family
- Decide which room offers you the safest shelter in an emergency. This should be a room with few windows.
- If you think you may lose electricity, fill up bathtubs and sinks with water ahead of time to make sure you have access to water.
- Create a disaster supply kit, including supplies that will help you ride out any emergency. Include items such as:
- Water (1 gallon daily per person for 3-7 days)
- Food (enough for 3-7 days)
- Blankets and pillows
- Clothing
- First aid kits, medicine and prescription drugs
- Toiletries
- Baby wipes (in case of a power outage)
- Cash
- Pre-charge your cell phone and other electronics in case of power outages.
Your Pets
- Prepare an evacuation plan that includes your pets in case of an emergency. Don’t leave them behind.
- Include pet-friendly items, such as food, bottled water, blankets, leashes, toys, in your emergency kit.
- Make sure your pets are wearing collars and tags with your contact information in case you are separated.
Your Home
- Get your yard ready by removing any weak or dead trees or limbs on your property.
- Bring in all outdoor furniture, trash cans, or anything that could be thrown around in the wind.
- Have a sump pump ready if you have a basement that is prone to flooding.
- Review your homeowner’s insurance policy prior to the hurricane to ensure you have adequate coverage. If you are in an area that is prone, consider adding flood insurance to your homeowner’s policy.
Your Vehicle
- If possible, park your vehicle away from trees, in the event of falling limbs.
- Fill the fuel tanks in your vehicles in case of an emergency evacuation.
- Review your automotive insurance policy prior to the hurricane to ensure you have adequate coverage.