The Complete Hurricane Preparation Guide: What to Do Before, During, and After

1. Pre-Hurricane Indoor and Outdoor Safety Checklist

When a hurricane watch or warning is issued, the first thing to do is check for hazards inside and outside your home. Items on balconies or in yards that could be blown away by the wind, such as potted plants and patio furniture, must all be moved indoors or securely tied down.

If drains and gutters are clogged with debris, backflow or flooding can occur during a sudden downpour, so it is important to clean them in advance. Also, prepare for power outages by charging emergency lanterns and power banks, and secure a first-aid kit and enough bottled water.

2. Window Reinforcement and Damage Prevention from Strong Winds

The main cause of window damage from strong winds during a hurricane is the glass vibrating and hitting the window frame. Therefore, rather than simply taping an 'X' on the glass, the key is to tightly seal the gaps between the window and the frame.

To prevent the window frame from shaking, insert rolled-up newspapers, milk cartons, or pieces of cardboard into the gaps. Lock the window securely and then apply tape tightly around the edges of the window frame. Avoid approaching windows and keep curtains closed to prevent glass shards from flying into the room if the window shatters.

3. Flood Damage Prevention and Vehicle Safety Management

If you live in a low-lying area or a region prone to frequent flooding, you should install water barriers and sandbags at apartment underground parking lots or building entrances in advance. Vehicles parked near rivers or in low-lying areas must be immediately moved to a safe location on higher ground.

If roads begin to flood while you are driving, you must detour quickly before the water reaches two-thirds of your tire height. Do not attempt to drive through already flooded roads or underpasses; it is safer to abandon the vehicle and evacuate immediately to higher ground.

4. Situational Emergency Procedures During a Hurricane

While a hurricane is directly affecting your area, you must absolutely avoid unnecessary outings. Stay indoors and continuously monitor weather conditions via TV, radio, or smartphone disaster safety apps.

If you are caught outside in a hurricane, stay far away from construction sites, utility poles, and street trees, as there is a high risk of falling objects and electrocution. Stay away from retaining walls that might collapse or areas prone to landslides, and evacuate inside a sturdy building immediately.

5. Post-Hurricane Safety Checks and Recovery Guidelines

Do not let your guard down even after the hurricane has passed. Damaged electrical facilities or gas pipes pose a serious risk of electrocution and fire, so do not touch them yourself; report them immediately to the local utility companies.

Before entering a flooded house, turn off the gas and electricity, ventilate the area thoroughly, and have a safety inspection conducted. Also, do not consume any food or water that has come into contact with floodwaters, as there is a high chance of contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

A hurricane is a natural disaster where damage can be significantly reduced through thorough preparation and strict adherence to emergency procedures. Please familiarize yourself with the precautions before landfall and evacuate quickly via disaster safety alerts or emergency services to stay safe in dangerous situations.