Before a hurricane strikes, plan ahead and prepare for your family's safety. First, make a family emergency supply kit, and include a flashlight, battery-operated radio, extra batteries, and a first aid kit. Take emergency food, water in plastic bottles, a non-electric can opener, and a week's worth of medications. If you are advised to evacuate the area, be sure the emergency supply kit goes with you when you leave.
Hurricanes strike U.S. coastal areas nearly every year with powerful winds and rain.
Many people don't know that the severe damage to homes and property caused by hurricane driven floodwaters is NOT covered by homeowners insurance. A hurricane watch is issued when there is a threat of hurricane conditions within a 24-36 hour period. During a hurricane watch, listen to a battery-operated radio or television for hurricane progress reports. If there is a hurricane warning, you may be advised to evacuate the area. Check the contents of your emergency supply kit, and fill plastic water bottles with one gallon of fresh water per person per day.