With the increase in the number of average storms during hurricane season, being prepared for hurricanes and tropical storms is more important than ever. As all of our communities are susceptible to storms during hurricane season, Ameri-Tech has emergency management resources available so that you can be prepared before, during, and after the event of a hurricane.
Prior to being faced with an upcoming storm, it is important to do the following:
- Have an evacuation plan
- Know the hazard risks of hurricanes
- Strengthen your home
- Update your insurance
- Know where to get hurricane information
- Understand the impact of storm surge
To read more about these preparations, please go to our Hurricane Information page.
Before a Hurricane
Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8” marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking. Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will help reduce roof damage if your home is faced with strong winds.
Be sure that trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed. Clear out and fix loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts. If you have a boat, determine how and where you are going to secure it. Consider building a safe room in your home, especially if you do not plan to evacuate.
Evacuation: More Common Than You Realize
Evacuations are more common than many people realize. Hundreds of times each year, transportation and industrial accidents release harmful substances, forcing thousands of people to leave their homes. Fires and floods cause evacuations even more frequently. Almost every year, people along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts evacuate in the face of approaching hurricanes. Ask local authorities about emergency evacuation routes and see if maps are available with evacuation routes marked.
During an Evacuation
When community evacuations become necessary, local officials provide information to the public through the media. In some circumstances, other warning methods, such as sirens or telephone calls, also are used. Additionally, there may be circumstances under which you and your family feel threatened or endangered and you need to leave your home, school, or workplace to avoid these situations.
The amount of time you have to leave will depend on the hazard. If the event is a weather condition, such as a hurricane that can be monitored, you might have a day or two to get ready. However, many disasters allow no time for people to gather even the most basic necessities, which is why planning ahead is essential.