Stay Safe During Hurricane Season
Hurricane season runs from June to November, but did you know that 85% of these storms occur after August 15? As we move into the second half of the season, make sure you are ready to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Storms and natural disasters can happen at any time. Protect your loved ones and give yourself peace of mind by planning and knowing the resources available to you. Below are resources available to help you prepare for the storm and recover in the aftermath.
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Make an Emergency Plan
Preparation is the key to safety. Ready.gov recommends making an emergency plan with your family, friends, or household. Click the hyperlink above to find out more about making an emergency plan. Be sure to consider each of the following elements while creating your emergency plan:
• How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
• What is my shelter plan?
• What is my evacuation route?
• What is my family/household communications plan?
• Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?
Click the Blue link above to access more information or go to: https://www.ready.gov/plan?utm_source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign
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Pack an Emergency Kit
Powerful storms can cause many safety hazards. Homes may lose power. Debris and flooding may limit your ability to leave your home. Be prepared to survive with a disaster supplies kit. This kit includes basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency. Ready.gov recommends packing a kit with food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. Click the hyperlink above to find out more about making an emergency kit. Kit supplies may vary depending on your specific needs, but most kits should include:
• Batteries
• Cell phone with charger and battery pack
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Prescription medications
• Documents such as insurance policies
Click the Blue link above to access more information or go to: https://www.ready.gov/kit?utm_source=govdelivery&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign
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Stay Informed
It is critical to stay informed about any storms heading your way. Download the FEMA mobile app to receive real-time weather alerts, locate emergency shelters in your area, prepare for common hazards, and more. Sign up for community alerts and enable Wireless Emergency Alerts from the National Weather Service for emergency notifications in your area.
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After the Storm
Recovering after a hurricane or other natural disaster can be daunting. However, there is support available. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) DisasterAssistance.gov can connect you with short and long-term disaster relief. Click here to see if you qualify for assistance.
DisasterAssistance.gov is the federal government’s official website to help you access and apply for relief resources from more than 17 agencies. The website can help you:
• Find disaster relief to fit your specific needs.
• Apply for cash assistance following a disaster.
• Locate a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) near you.
• Find a hotel or place to live.
• Find information on food and nutrition programs.
• Have your Social Security benefits sent to your new address.
• Learn about Small Business Administration Loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses.
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