There are many ways to prepare for a hurricane. These are a few items you can generally do in advance of bad weather:
Know the difference between a “watch” and a “warning.” Listen for National Weather Service alerts on your TV or radio or check them online. A hurricane watch means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or higher) are possible. A hurricane warning is more severe, meaning hurricane-force winds are expected. Usually, these warnings are issued 36 hours before tropical-storm-force winds are expected to give people time to prepare.
Make a plan. Make sure everyone in your household knows the plan. Keep emergency phone numbers nearby and have everyone add them to their cell phones.
Prepare an emergency supply kit. Prepare a kit with food, water, prescriptions and needed medical supplies to last 72 hours. In addition, in a waterproof container, place any critical documents or medical records.
Get your vehicle ready. Make sure you fill your gas tank and have your emergency kit inside your vehicle. If you don’t own a vehicle, make a plan with a friend or family for a ride.
Plan for your pet’s safety. Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels, or ask an out-of-town friend or relative to take your pets if there’s an evacuation. Your local animal shelter can offer advice on what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
Locate the nearest shelter. Find a nearby shelter so that if you need to seek shelter, you can quickly get there. Plan different routes to get there in case there are road closures.
Get your home ready. Clean your yard and move bikes, outdoor furniture, grills or other items inside. Cover doors and windows to protect them. If you see flooding, downed power lines, or you need to leave your home, turn off your power.